BY RUBY P. SILUBRICO and MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City — The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) will conduct an investigation into police surveillance practices, following the killing of Police Corporal Reo Manero, who was shot dead while conducting surveillance in Barangay Polot-an, Pototan, Iloilo on April 8.
PRO-6 director Brigadier General Jack Wanky said the investigation aims to determine whether Philippine National Police (PNP) protocols on surveillance activities are being observed.
The probe will focus on cases involving: incidents where police personnel discharge firearms; incidents resulting in death, serious physical injury, or any human rights violations during police operations.
The PRO-6’s Internal Affairs Service will be in charge of the investigation.
“We need to investigate to ascertain if the proper protocols are being followed. When conducting surveillance or arresting wanted individuals, officers should operate in pairs, using the buddy system to avoid such incidents. However, sometimes it’s a judgment call. When you spot a suspect, the tendency is to apprehend them immediately without considering the possibility that they might be armed,” explained Wanky.
Manero was fatally shot by police character Michael Solis, 41, of Barangay Polot-an, Pototan while the officer, dressed in civilian clothes, was conducting surveillance of the later.
Less than 24 hours later, Solis was shot dead by pursuing police personnel in the town of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.
On April 15, the PRO-6 provided financial support to Manero’s family. Wanky visited Manero’s wake in Lambunao, Iloilo and presented an initial sum of P50,000 to his widow.
“This is just the initial amount. His wife will receive more support. We must help his family and not neglect them, as he was a loyal and hardworking officer,” Wanky said.
With Wanky were PRO-7 Regional Executive Senior Police Officer Dennis Quema and Iloilo Police Provincial Office director Colonel Ronaldo Palomo.
“The loss and bravery of Police Corporal Reo Manero are deeply felt by the entire PRO-6 community. His commitment and passion for duty will forever be honored and remembered,” said Wanky./PN