BuCor to conduct parallel probe on death of jail officer

BuCor chief Gerald Quitaleg Bantag. Photo from DILG-PIO

MANILA, Philippines–Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director-General Gerald Bantag has ordered the conduct of a parallel investigation into the death of a BuCor officer who was shot to death last week just a few blocks away from the gates of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP).

“I have instructed BuCor to conduct a parallel investigation to determine the motive to this cowardly act and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Bantag said in a statement.

He, however, said they will fully cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Corrections Officer 1 Porferio Bergula, 38, assigned at the medium-security compound of the NBP, was killed by “riding in tandem” last Nov. 27.

Bantag also ordered BuCor’s the admin office and its personnel department to extend all possible assistance to Bergula’s family.

The BuCor chief cautioned his personnel to observe security consciousness at all times.

“The nature of our job exposes us to different risks but this must never deter us in the faithful execution of our duties and responsibilities. Let us not allow this incident to diminish our individual and collective resolve to perform our mandate with commitment and integrity,” he added.

Edited by JPV