2 cops in teen’s slay cited for contempt
MANILA, Philippines — The Senate committee on public order cited two Navotas police officers in contempt yesterday for being uncooperative in its investigation of the death of a teenager in a police operation last Aug. 2.
Committee chairman Sen. Ronald dela Rosa cited in contempt Capt. Mark Carpio and S/Sgt. Gerry Maliban during yesterday’s hearing.
Carpio led the team of police officers who shot dead Jerhode Baltazar, 17, when they reportedly mistook him for a suspect in a shooting incident.
Dela Rosa cited Maliban in contempt after the lawman invoked his right to self-incrimination when asked about Carpio’s claim that Maliban fired on the teenager.
“You are not being cooperative in this investigation. You refused to cooperate in this investigation,” Dela Rosa said.
Dela Rosa questioned Maliban about his dismissal from service on charges of robbery-extortion. Maliban said that he filed a motion for reconsideration that has yet to be resolved.
Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, Philippine National Police (PNP) deputy chief for administration, said there were lapses in compliance with police operational procedure, internal discipline and policies on command responsibility.
He said the PNP is investigating how police officers dismissed for malpractice and abuse were able to return to service.
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