‘No whitewash in probe on missing beauty queen’

MANILA, Philippines — There will be no whitewash in the investigation into the disappearance of Miss Grand Philippines 2023 candidate Catherine Camilon.

Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. gave this assurance yesterday after a policeman has been tagged as a person of interest.

“I am terribly disappointed and greatly disturbed by reports that a police officer might be involved in the disappearance of a beauty pageant candidate. Certainly, I am at the forefront of those fighting for the protection of women, children and even the elderly. I am committed to defend them at all times and at all costs,” Abalos said.

He said he ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

Abalos said the policeman has been relieved from his post to remove any doubt of possible whitewash or cover-up.

”In the event that all the evidence gathered point to the subject police officer’s possible involvement, we assure the public of a fair, proper and impartial investigation,” he said.

Abalos appealed to those who have any information on the location of Camilon to get in touch with the PNP for the quick resolution of the case.

The policeman was relieved from his post and transferred to the regional personnel holding and accounting unit, Calabarzon police director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas said in a statement.

Probers said the policeman is the boyfriend of Camilon and they agreed to meet on the day she was reported missing.