Cop axed over shooting frenzy involving son

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – The policeman-father of one of eight suspects in a shooting frenzy in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur on New Year’s Day has been relieved from his post.

Ilocos Sur police director Senior Superintendent Nestor Felix said Senior Police Officer 1 Alex Gomez of the provincial anti-illegal drugs special operations group was recalled to the holding unit of the provincial police in Vigan City.

Gomez is the father of Geronimo, one of eight men charged with alarm and scandal for firing their guns indiscriminately in Barangay San Antonio.

Aside from Gomez, charged were Christopher Calixterio, Mark RJ Cabana, Mark Cachola, Jumar Cabreros and Cesar, Philip Andrew and Russel, all surnamed Funtanilla.

Felix denied rumors that Gomez was assigned as a security aide of Gov. Ryan Singson. He also denied reports that the entire municipal police would be relieved due to the incident.

Chief Inspector Rex Buyucan, chief of Narvacan police, reportedly took a leave of absence last week to resume his schooling. He was replaced by Senior Inspector Jerome Sinugo as officer-in-charge.