The Philippines' Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has stopped its investigation into a retired Philippine National Police (PNP) chief. This investigation was about the chief’s alleged role in the escape of former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo. The decision to stop the investigation happened after Raul Villanueva, the senior vice president of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), made a clarification. He explained that his earlier statement about the retired PNP chief’s involvement was based only on unverified rumours from the intelligence community.
The Awaited Meeting
The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) plan to meet this week. They want to investigate claims that a former PNP chief took bribes from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo confirmed this meeting between CIDG officials and PAGCOR Chief Raul Villanueva. This follows Villanueva’s statement made during a Senate hearing on February 17th. He said that a former PNP chief was involved in taking bribes from the dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, and helped her escape the country in February.
Public Apology On The Cards
Villanueva’s statement during the Senate hearing caused a lot of controversy. He said that the former PNP chief had helped Alice Guo escape and suggested that this officer was getting paid by her. This claim angered the current PNP leadership. It also led to a strong reaction from the Council of Chiefs, a group of former PNP leaders. They demanded that Villanueva either prove his allegations or make a public apology.
He has responded to this backlash. He said he is ready to explain his statement at the next Senate hearing. He admitted that his claims were only based on rumors and hearsay. Because of this, the CIDG is now reconsidering whether to continue with the investigation. They realize there could be legal problems for Villanueva if he cannot provide real evidence to support what he said.
Gen. Rommel Marbil's Take
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil shared his deep concern about Villanueva’s statement. He said it had caused harm to the police organization. “General Villanueva's allegation is harmful not only to the PNP but to the entire government,” Marbil stated. He explained that the PNP stands for law enforcement and maintaining peace and order. This accusation, he added, creates doubt about their integrity.
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