6 Navotas cops charged over Jemboy’s murder

MANILA, Philippines — Murder charges were filed yesterday against six Navotas policemen allegedly involved in the killing of 17-year-old Jerhode “Jemboy” Baltazar in August, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The complaints for murder were filed against Executive M/Sgt. Roberto Balais Jr., Staff Sergeants Antonio Bugayong Jr., Gerry Maliban and Nikko Pines Esquilon, Cpl. Edmard Jade Blanco as well as Pat. Benedict Mangada before the Navotas City Regional Trial Court.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the filing of murder cases was a departure from the homicide complaints lodged by the family of Baltazar before the city prosecutor’s office.

“This was discussed in the DOJ. We had it evaluated so that the case that will be filed would be appropriate to the crime. We did not agree to the homicide charges that were initially proposed,” Remulla told reporters.

In September, the National Capital Region Police Office approved the dismissal of the six lawmen along with two officials of the Navotas City police.

The suspects were found liable for grave irregularity in the performance of duty and for conduct unbecoming of a police officer.

Captains Mark Joseph Carpio and Luisito de la Cruz were found guilty of serious grave neglect of duty.

The eight were among the police officers who took part in the Aug. 2 operation in Barangay North Bay Boulevard South Kaunlaran that killed Baltazar.

Police mistook Baltazar for Reynaldo Bolivar, a murder suspect they were pursuing.

Administrative charges are also being eyed against the sacked Navotas police chief, Col. Allan Umipig, for allegedly covering up the probe.

Umipig reportedly ordered the exclusion of 11 police officers from the report on the shooting incident.

A total of 22 Navotas police officers have been relieved over the killing of Baltazar.