Cop faces probe

CEBU, Philippines -  A policewoman is facing administrative charges for allegedly barging into two houses and accusing two homosexuals of stealing her companion’s wallet on Sunday night in Barangay Calamba, Cebu City.

PO1 Irene Romariz of the Cebu City Traffic Patrol Group (TPG), was accused of harassment and trespass to dwelling by her neighbors, Paris Lauron Belza and Rhygel Medalla, both 23-years-old, of Quijano Compound, of the said barangay.

Romariz reportedly went amok inside the compound after her 21-year-old companion lost her wallet containing P2,800 while they were in the middle of a drinking session with neighbors.

Paris alleged that she was invited by their neighbor to entertain their guests but was instead harassed and defamed by the policewoman who was reportedly drunk.

“We will find justice. Giyatak-yatakan niya ang among mga katungod, (She trampled on our rights.)” he told The FREEMAN.

 Paris said they were accused by Romariz as the ones who stole her companion’s wallet.

He further alleged that Romariz barged inside both of their houses and ransacked their belongings in search of the lost wallet.

“Iya gyud gipang habwa ang among mga gamit sa aparador ug ang among mga kaldiro, (She removed our things from the closet, even our pans.)” Paris said.

A few minutes later, the wallet was recovered near a comfort room where the victims and the suspects were having their drinks. The money was already gone. 

Emalinda Lauron, 48, mother of Paris, said she cried when she saw her house in disarray after it was reportedly ransacked by Romariz.

She claim that her son could not steal from anyone though they are poor, stressing that she could not endure the idea that someone could easily ridicule any of her five siblings.

However, Romariz in a separate interview, denied the allegations saying that Paris and Medalla were lying.

She said she never barged into anyone’s house nor did she defame and accused anyone of stealing her companion’s wallet. 

Romariz claimed that she only entered Paris’ residence when she was asked to do so to check the comfort room. “Dili to matawag as illegal search kay sila may nagpasulod nako, (It’s not considered an illegal search because they were the ones who let me in.)” she said.

Both victims have already reported the incident to the Cebu City Investigation and Detective Management Branch for formal investigation.  (FREEMAN)