Albayalde: PNP to check alleged excesses in Crisologo’s arrest

Quezon City mayoral candidate Vincent “Bingbong” Crisologo is arrested for alleged vote-buying in Quezon City.
PDI PHOTO / RICHARD A. REYES

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde has assured that authorities will investigate any supposed irregularity within the arrest of Quezon City mayoral candidate and Rep. Vincent Crisologo.

In a press briefing on Monday evening, Albayalde said that the PNP’s Internal Affairs Service will conduct its own investigation of the case, even without his or Crisologo’s prodding.

“Again that is right, kung ‘yon talaga ang na-feel niya na na-violate ang kanilang privacy, talagang merong nagawa ang ating [mga pulis] according sa kanya […] then nasa kanya ‘yon,” the police chief said when asked about the lawmaker’s plan to file charges against the arresting officers.

“We will just probably ask the IAS to investigate kung meron talagang irregularity na ginawa ang ating mga [pulis]. In fact, with or without my directive, I assure the IAS will conduct a motu propio investigation on the case,” he claimed.

Albayalde also clarified that they are willing to work with Crisologo in determining if there were violations against them.

“Kung gusto niyang lumapit sa amin when he files a case, we will gladly assist him,” he added.

On Sunday night — hours before the polling precincts opened — police said Crisologo and his son lawyer Frederick William Crisologo were arrested for obstruction of justice after they allegedly prevented the arrest of supporters who were being held for supposed vote-buying operations.

The older Crisologo claimed that they were arrested illegally as police did not read the Miranda doctrine. Officers meanwhile claimed that Crisologo intimidated them by shouting.

READ: Crisologo, son arrested for alleged vote-buying of poll watcher

READ: QC mayoral bet Crisologo arrested for alleged obstruction of justice, PNP clarifies 

Crisologo earlier went through inquest proceedings. He was temporarily freed pending further investigation, allowing him to vote around 3:00 p.m.

READ: QCPD temporarily frees Crisologo pending further probe 

(Editor: Abe Cerojano)