DILG mourns passing of NAPOLCOM vice-chair Casurao

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is mourning the loss of National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) vice chairman and executive officer Rogelio Casurao who passed away on January 2.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año described Casurao as "a man who left an indelible mark in government service," especially in the development and transformation of the men and women of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to become more professional, disciplined, and ethical public servants.

"With him by my side as my VCEO, the Commission facilitated the adjudication of complaints filed against police personnel which resulted, among others, in the dismissal of 177 cops, suspension of 71, and the demotion of 199 in 2020 alone," Año said in a statement on Monday.

"NAPOLCOM also monitored the alleged involvement of 442 police officers in illegal activities, organized crime, human rights violations and other forms of misconduct. Similarly, the Commission checked on the implementation of decisions on 1,099 administrative cases rendered by the different PNP administrative authorities," he added.

He also said Casurao was instrumental in NAPOLCOM's suspension of the deputation authority over the local police of eight governors and 184 mayors because of their failure to act decisively and effectively on peace and order and illegal drugs concerns in their jurisdictions.

The DILG chief said Casurao's untimely demise had left a void at NAPOLCOM, especially at this period when the agency is working hard to further professionalize the PNP and get rid of the erring police officers.

"His efforts and reforms in NAPOLCOM will never be forgotten. He will forever be part of the DILG and NAPOLCOM's history and stories of struggles and successes," Año said.

"Maraming salamat kay VCEO Casurao sa maraming taon niyang matino, mahusay at maaasahang paglilingkod bayan. May all his good deeds in public service be rewarded in the eternal hereafter," he added.

Casurao passed away at the age of 66.

The DILG expressed condolences to the grieving family and loved ones of Casurao.