Sinas: ‘It was never my intention to disobey ECQ protocols’

Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas, chief of the NCRPO. INQUIRER.net file photo / NOY MORCOSO

MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila police chief Major Gen. Debold Sinas apologized on Wednesday after reports that his birthday celebration failed to practice physical distancing last May 8, saying he never intended to violate any health protocols under the enhanced community quarantine.

He issued the apology as he claimed some photos of the occasion that circulated on social media were “edited” and “old photos.”

“Some of the pictures circulating in the social media were edited and grabbed from old posts. The pictures may depict itself however it does not define the totality of what really had happened,” Sinas said in a statement.

“Nevertheless, I apologize for what transpired during my birthday that caused anxiety to the public. It was never my intention to disobey any existing protocols relative to the implementation of Enhanced Community Quarantine,” he added.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Archie Gamboa earlier ordered the Internal Affairs Service to investigate whether health protocols were breached during Sinas’ mañanita or birthday serenade.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) even posted photos of the occasion on their official Facebook page. Some photos showed Sinas accepting flowers from visitors of the celebration, blowing his cake and police officers line up for a buffet.

But Sinas said he reminded his policemen to strictly comply with the health rules while the celebration was being held.

“Overjoyed as a birthday celebrant, I was caught up with a traditional Mañanita spontaneously conducted by some of my officers and men in their own volition. In all actuality, my accommodation to them was done with all cautiousness because I am fully aware of the Anti Covid measures being implemented by the government,” Sinas said.

“They were told to observe social distancing and other precautionary health measures. They were also told not to linger and prepare for the simultaneous relief distribution NCR-wide that day,” he added.

JPV