PNP Denies Replacing Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz Over Sabong Case

PNP Clarifies Reassignment of Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) firmly denied that former CIDG Director Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz was replaced due to his handling of the abducted sabong aficionados case. The police emphasized that the reassignment was not connected to the investigation of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts.

On July 28, Macapaz was moved from his post as Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director to become the head of the Police Regional Office Soccsksargen (PRO 12). This shift sparked speculation, but the PNP clarified it was a personal request.

Macapaz’s Personal Request for Reassignment

During a briefing at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo explained, “It was a personal request of General Macapaz to be reassigned to another region to be a director.” She added that Macapaz is nearing retirement, with less than a year left in service, which disqualifies him from promotion to a two-star general rank.

The CIDG director role requires a two-star rank, typically held by a major general. Macapaz holds only a one-star rank of brigadier general and served as acting CIDG director since his appointment on June 19.

Reassignment Not Linked to Sabong Case

Fajardo’s statements came amid rumors that the CIDG was urging families of the abducted sabungeros to file charges against whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, alias Totoy. Earlier in July, some victim families reportedly visited the CIDG to submit affidavits, though they did not disclose the purpose.

Cha Lasco, a relative of missing sabungero Richard Lasco and a vocal advocate for the families, said in a statement, “Under the leadership of CIDG Director General Macapaz, the investigation became slow and the direction changed.”

However, Fajardo countered these claims, clarifying, “The only way for them to be discharged as a state witness is to be charged with a case.” She defended Macapaz, saying, “It’s very unfair on the part of General Macapaz that the information coming out now is that he is trying to muddle the investigation, but in reality, the man was just doing his job.”

Why Soccsksargen? Macapaz’s Intelligence Background

When asked why Macapaz was assigned to Soccsksargen, Fajardo cited his background in intelligence work. “This is in response to the order of our president during the Sona to run after smugglers, and we know there are smuggling issues in Mindanao,” she explained.

Additionally, the upcoming Bangsamoro parliamentary elections on October 13 require heightened security measures in the region, providing further rationale for Macapaz’s posting.

For more news and updates on Philippine police affairs, visit Filipinokami.com.

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