ILOILO – New findings have emerged in the death of a 36-year-old police staff sergeant inside the Barotac Nuevo Municipal Police Station, as an autopsy revealed that he sustained two gunshot wounds to the head, contrary to earlier reports of a single fatal shot.
Medico-legal officer Dr. Owen Lebaquin, who conducted the autopsy, confirmed that the bullet entered through the right temple and exited through the left side of the officer’s head. He further noted the presence of two gunshot wounds, deepening the mystery surrounding the officer’s sudden death.
The officer, who was the station’s Finance Section chief and a resident of Barangay Acuit, was discovered dead at around 5:30 a.m. on July 9 by his team leader. He had been on duty the previous night.
A spent shell casing was recovered about two meters from the body, while the officer’s service firearm was found clutched in his right hand, according to the initial report by Scene of the Crime Operations (SOCO) personnel.
The newly formed Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) is now handling the case, following the turnover of autopsy findings by Dr. Lebaquin. The revelation of a second gunshot wound has prompted deeper forensic and ballistic analysis to establish whether foul play, suicide, or accidental discharge was involved.
In a significant administrative move, Police Captain Cedrick Cruz was relieved as station chief, and Police Lieutenant Johnny Bundac, the station’s deputy chief, has been designated Officer-in-Charge. Meanwhile, nine police officers assigned to the station underwent paraffin testing to detect possible traces of gunpowder.
According to Major Rolando Araño, spokesperson for the Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO), the results of the paraffin tests, sworn statements from personnel, and ballistic examinations will be crucial in determining the exact cause and manner of the officer’s death.
The incident has stirred concern over internal security protocols and the mental well-being of police personnel, especially given the victim’s sensitive role as a finance officer. The case follows a string of unsettling incidents involving police officers in Iloilo province, including the fatal shooting of a corporal in Pototan during an operation in April 2024.
Philippine National Police chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil has extended his support to the investigation and urged authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent probe.
“This case demands nothing less than full integrity and professionalism. The truth must come out,” he said.
The SITG has yet to release a timeline for its findings, but authorities assured the public that all angles are being considered and that any person found liable will be held accountable./PN
