Two Cops Relieved Over Threat on Priest in Ilocos Norte

MANILA, Philippines — Two members of the Bacarra municipal police in Ilocos Norte have been relieved from their posts after one of them allegedly threatened to shoot a priest and his family. The incident, which occurred on Friday, prompted the National Police Commission to conduct an investigation, according to Napolcom vice chairman and executive officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan. The officers, identified as M/Sgt. Rely Vea Jr. and Cpl. Neil Jan Gayrama, were transferred to the provincial police personnel holding and accounting unit pending results of the investigation, Calinisan said. Reports said the officers reportedly went into the house of Fr. Arvin Mangrubang in Barangay Buyon where a party was being held. For yet unknown reasons, Vea allegedly threatened to shoot Mangrubang and his relatives. Calinisan commended the Ilocos Norte police for immediately removing Vea and Gayrama from their posts. He said the Napolcom would not hesitate to file administrative charges against Vea and Gayrama once they are found guilty of the offense.