QCPD official in hit-and-run sacked

MANILA, Philippines — A police official who is the registered owner of a black Ford Ranger pickup, which figured in a hit-and-run accident in Quezon City that killed a tricycle driver was relieved from his post yesterday.

Lt. Col. Mark Julio Abong was sacked as chief of the Quezon City Police District criminal investigation and detection unit, according to QCPD director Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III.

Torre said Abong was reassigned to the QCPD’s personnel holding and accounting section.

Abong was replaced by Maj. Sheryl Bautista. He will remain on floating status while being investigated for the accident that killed tricycle driver Joel Laroa and injured his passenger, Torre said.

Apart from charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, physical injuries and damage to property, Torre said Abong may face an administrative complaint if the probe shows that there was criminal liability and negligence on his part.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public that it has taken the necessary steps to ensure that Laroa’s family gets justice.

“The police will be fair in handling the probe,” PNP public information officer Brig. Gen. Roderick Augustus Alba said.

Abong’s vehicle hit Laroa’s tricycle at the corner of Anonas and Pajo streets in Barangay Quirino 2-A on Aug. 6.

The police official claimed that the car’s caretaker, Ronald Centino, drove his vehicle without his consent.

Laroa died in a hospital due to loss of blood brought by injuries on his left leg. His passenger, Rozelle Morales, was injured in the incident.