DOJ making database of dismissed, AWOL state forces

The Department of Justice is building a database of police officers or military personnel who were dismissed or went absent without leave.

“So that if ever they will be part of any security forces dapat meron silang identification na maganda, they will have clearances. Basta we’re building everything we can,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in an ambush interview.

Remulla said the database was derived following the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo.

“Yes, yes. We’re learning many lessons from the Degamo affair, no. Marami tayo natutunan dito. That’s why we’re not stopping,” Remulla said.

Degamo and five others were killed in the shooting incident. The death toll went up to nine the following day, while 13 others were seriously injured due to the incident.

Three suspects were arrested during a hot pursuit operation in Bayawan City on March 4, while one other suspect died in an alleged encounter with authorities in the province.

Another suspect was arrested on March 5.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Colonel Medel Aguilar earlier said arrested suspects in the killing of Degamo are Army personnel facing  different cases like for violation of Article 97 of the Articles of War or conduct prejudicial to good order and military discipline as well as illegal drug cases.

Joven Javier was a former sergeant assigned to the Light Reaction Unit of the AFP and trained for counterterrorism while Joric Labrador was a former sergeant who served in the intelligence battalion.

Benjie Rodriguez was a former corporal and has been assigned to 35th Infantry Battalion, Aguilar added.

Charges have been filed against them.—AOL, GMA Integrated News