Police Brigadier General Romeo J. Macapaz was recommended for dismissal by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) primarily due to his involvement in the controversial missing sabungeros case.
According to NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Rafael Vicente Calinisan, imvestigators found that Macapaz unlawfully seized the mobile phones of brothers Julie “Dondon” and Elakim Patidongan, who were linked to the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts.
This act was deemed a violation of due process and an obstruction of justice, undermining the integrity of the investigation.
NAPOLCOM ruled that his behavior constituted grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, both serious administrative offenses.
The commission emphasized that such actions eroded public trust in law enforcement and compromised the credibility of the Philippine National Police.
While 11 other officers directly involved in the case were dismissed outright, Macapaz’s dismissal requires presidential approval because of his rank as brigadier general.
This recommendation highlights NAPOLCOM’s effort to enforce accountability and discipline within the police force.
