BY JEN BAYLON
ILOILO – A 21-year-old detainee escaped from the Tigbauan Municipal Police Station around 12:10 a.m. on Nov. 24.
Jesry Manlapuz bolted towards the back of the station, successfully evading capture.
The on-duty officer allowed Manlapuz to use the restroom outside his cell due to an inoperative on-site facility. While en route to the alternative restroom, Manlapuz fled, said Colonel Ronaldo Palomo, director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO).
An extensive manhunt is currently underway.
Authorities are urging the public to report any information that may aid in Manlapuz’s recapture.
The IPPO, too, launched an investigation to determine the potential liability of the duty officer and to evaluate the Tigbauan police force’s overall actions.
“We are also investigating how Manlapuz managed to flee without interception,” said Palomo.
He emphasized the need for enhanced security measures to prevent future prison escapes.
“We will hold accountable any officer found negligent or responsible for this escape. This includes the jailer, duty officers, and the police station chief, who must ensure adherence to proper protocols and swift notification in such situations,” said Palomo./PN
