Napolcom clears Dumpit

CEBU, Philippines - The National Police Commission (Napolcom) dismissed the case against SPO1 Adonis Dumpit over the shooting to death of robbery suspect Ronron Go in 2003.

The decision was approved by the Napolcom in October 15, 2010 yet, or almost six months ago. But it was received only recently by Dumpit’s counsel, lawyer Leslie Salva.

The order was signed by Napolcom Chairman and DILG Secretary Jesse M. Robredo as well as Commissioners Eduardo Escueta, Luisito Palmera, Alejandro Urro, Constancia de Guzman and Raul Bacalzo.

Director II Marte S. Palomar, chief of the Napolcom’s Legal Affairs Service, attested to the decision.

The Napolcom said Dumpit is not guilty as he was only doing his duty as law enforcer. They found no ill-motive in Dumpit’s action and dismissed the case for lack of substantial evidence.

Go’s mother, Janeth Badana, does not see this decision as the end to their years-long battle. She said they will file a motion for reconsideration.

Meanwhile, Salva said they will use Napolcom’s order to file a motion to bail and strengthen their case in court.

The Commission said that after careful evaluation of the case records, it was convinced that the “quantum of proof” to support a finding of guilt has not been established.

“Respondent’s evidence that he performed his duty regularly far outweighed the evidence of the prosecution and thus, tilted the scale of justice in favor of the respondent,” the order reads.

Dumpit claimed he was shot by the group of Ronron Go so he fired back.

“It was thus necessary to stop or disable the group as their freedom from the bounds of law would only mean more sufferings and fear for the public. Facing imminent danger, Dumpit had to act swiftly. Time is of the essence. It was Dumpit’s solemn duty to serve and protect the people from harm,” the Commission added.

The decision further stated that Dumpit was performing his duty as a law enforcer when he tried to defend himself from aggression.

“As a law enforcer, Dumpit was duty bound to apprehend and prevent the escape of law offenders. The embattled police officer did not have the luxury of time. Neither did he have much choice,” order reads.

The Commission added that shooting Ronron was an “immediate and spontaneous reaction to imminent danger and a performance of duty as law enforcer.”

A certification dated December 28, 2004 from the Theft and Robbery Section of Cebu City Police Office strengthened the claim of Dumpit, as PO3 Eddie Casas and PO3 Conrado Alega said they recovered guns and bullets from Go.

It was in the afternoon of December 14, 2003 when Dumpit, PO3 Ruel Hortillano, PO3 Porferio Gabuya and three robbery victims were looking for Go.

Go’s mother, Badana, told the police she did not know where her son was. A few minutes after the police left, she heard two gunshots. She later learned that it was her son who was shot.

 Badana alleged Dumpit visited them in the hospital and approached her husband, Raymund, admitting that he shot and killed Go.  (FREEMAN)