After removing Police who raided Bamban POGO | Gen.Caramat denies Knowing Alice Guo's Car Dealer

CIDG Relieve Controversy: Shifting Officers Amid Successful Operations

Success and Controversy

In a heated congressional hearing, lawmakers focused on the controversial transfers of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) officers following successful operations against illegal POGO operators. At the center of the discussion were Police Major General Romeo Caramat Jr., the CIDG chief, and Colonel Joshua Alejandro, who was relieved after serving only six months as the CIDG Region 3 Chief.

Congressman Busita's Inquiries

Tension rose as Congressman Bonifacio Bosita questioned General Caramat about the reason behind Col. Alejandro's relieve. Caramat explained that the transfer was part of routine reshuffling and due to "trust and confidence." However, Bosita was not convinced, emphasizing that Alejandro's six-month term was too short for a regular reassignment.

Issues of Trust and Confidence

Bosita pressed further on the issue of trust and confidence. He pointed out that Col. Alejandro had successfully conducted operations, yet he was still relieved. Caramat responded that the decision was unrelated to the operation against illegal POGOs. This defense did not eliminate the doubts of lawmakers and the public monitoring the hearing.

Role of SOPB

Bosita also highlighted the role of the Senior Officers Placement Board (SOPB) of the PNP, which processes officer reassignments. Caramat stated that Alejandro's reassignment was already pending before the operation took place. Bosita insisted on seeing the board resolution to confirm this.

Congressman Barbers' Clarification

Congressman Barbers intervened, clarifying that the orders for transfers came from higher officials, not just General Caramat. He noted that the movements within CIDG were part of a larger issue concerning illegal operations and crimes involving illegal POGO operators. Barbers suggested that the committee should refocus on these illegal activities.

Legislative Action Suggestion

In the concluding part of the hearing, Bosita proposed that the committee should undertake legislative action to address these issues within the PNP. He argued that such practices undermine police morale and cast doubt on their operations.

Questioning J.P. Samson

Another controversial point was the questioning about J.P. Samson, the owner of Westcars used by Alice Guo in her operations. Congressman Dan Fernandez presented a photo of Samson with General Caramat. Although Caramat stated he did not know Samson personally, the photo raised further questions about the connections behind these operations.

As the hearing concluded, many questions remained about CIDG's decisions and policies regarding their operations and officer transfers. The committee called for a thorough investigation to clarify these issues and implement necessary measures to ensure the integrity and effective functioning of the PNP.