Policeman sacked for going AWOL

Cebu - A member of the Provincial Security and Service Group was dismissed from service after he went absent without official leave for over a month.

PO1 Renan Teñedo was dismissed from service pursuant to a memorandum circular 95-017 of the National Police Commission, which states that “an officer or employee who has been continuously absent without approved leave for 30 calendar days or more, shall be dropped from the rolls without prior notice...”

Teñedo reportedly started being absent on September 3, 2003 but informed his office of his whereabouts only on October 6.

The recommendation to terminate Teñedo from service also stated that he was among those required but failed to undergo drug testing.

Last June 7 2006, more than two years since he was recommended for termination, Teñedo filed a motion for reconsideration on the termination order, attaching a medical certificate issued by Pinamungajan District Hospital dated September 25, 2003 stating that he was under observation for one night due to a viral infection.

But while the provincial police office reconsidered its order, Teñedo was still charged administratively for less serious neglect of duty and was subject for a summary hearing proceeding.

The case was transmitted to the Regional Personnel and Human Resource Development Division where PRO-7 chief Ronald Roderos denied Teñedo’s motion for reconsideration. — Niña Chrismae G. Sumacot/JMO (THE FREEMAN)