PNP: Garins’ security agency not licensed to deploy bodyguards

ILOILO CITY, Philippines  —   Security guards at the agency owned by the family of Iloilo lawmaker Oscar Garin Jr. cannot be hired as bodyguards,  records at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Civil Service Unit (RCSU) showed.

Authorities investigated Executor Security Agency after Garin and his father Mayor Oscar Garin of Guimbal town, who were accused of beating up a police officer, amid reports that they own several guns and employ security guards as bodyguards.

The bodyguards of the elder Garin are reportedly from Executor.

At least 19 firearms were registered under the names of the Garins, 16 of which were  surrendered to the Western Visayas and San Juan police. Three were declared missing.

“It was not indicated on the permit that (Executor) can deploy personal security personnel... That would entail additional training and another permit,” Senior Superintendent Jomil John Trio, RCSU-Western Visayas chief, said.

“Once proven, it could be a ground for the revocation of the license... The permit is a privilege rather than a right, it could be taken back when a violation is committed,” Trio said.

Executor was granted a temporary license to operate on Dec. 28, two days after the Garins allegedly beat up the policeman.

 The license was signed by Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Biay, acting chief of the PNP Civil Security Group.

Executor has 70 uniformed security guards, according to its registration.