BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) is conducting an investigation into the death of Police Staff Sergeant Mechael Gatinao, who died during a seaborne patrol in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras.
Gatinao fell from a motorized banca during an anti-illegal fishing operation on October 16, 2024. His body was recovered two days later by local fishermen near Barangay San Isidro, Sibunag, Guimaras.
PRO-6 director Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky said that while the investigation is ongoing, immediate action is being taken to prevent similar incidents.
“We are still piecing together what happened, but we need to act now. Our police are continuing operations, but we are also reviewing our safety protocols,”Wanky said.
The focus, according to Wanky, is on improving safety measures during seaborne operations.
“We are updating our protocols to include stricter safety measures during sea patrols, especially the mandatory wearing of life jackets. Our unit commanders have been directed to prioritize the safety of their officers during such operations,” he said.
Wanky added that body cameras are required during operations, and the absence of such equipment, particularly during nighttime patrols, is a violation of protocol.
The investigation will determine if any lapses in procedure contributed to Gatinao’s death, and an administrative case may be filed against the chief of the Nueva Valencia Municipal Police Station depending on the findings.
PRO-6 has also committed to supporting Gatinao’s family, with a designated officer assisting them in securing the benefits due to them.
The Gatinao incident sparked renewed calls for stricter safety measures in high-risk police operations, especially in challenging environments like maritime patrols./PN
