Cebu City (CNN Philippines, May 9) — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in Central Visayas has ordered an investigation on the claims of Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña that local police have been engaging in partisan politics.
In a joint briefing of the COMELEC, police, and military for Central Visayas, Comelec Regional Director Veronico Petalcorin said he has tapped a lawyer to look into Osmeña’s allegations.
He added authorities will also investigate the claims of Cebu City police Chief Col. Royina Garma that the mayor harrassed some policemen during checkpoint operations.
Osmeña on Tuesday asked for the poll body’s intervention as he expressed “disappointment” with the police situation in his city.
“This is the first time that the police is being used for politics. This has never happened before. Even (President Rodrigo) Duterte when he was mayor of Davao, he ran after criminals and even kills them but he never used police for politics. This is the first time, and that is why I am very very disappointed (with the police),” Osmeña said in a news forum.
He also accused Garma of receiving payola or payoffs of up of ₱800,000, which supposedly came from illegal gambling. The police chief denied the allegations and urged Osmeña to just file cases against her.
READ: Cebu City Mayor wants COMELEC intervention in conflict with local police
Authorities said Osmeña’s request for COMELEC control will still be evaluated by the central office in Manila.
Resolution 10481 states that COMELEC can place an area under its control on the grounds of intense political rivalry, violence, use of loose firearms and serious armed threats. COMELEC can reshuffle or relieve police officers found guilty of election offenses.
Petalcorin said that while intense political rivalry is expected in the area, Cebu City remains “relatively peaceful” ahead of the May 13 polls.
At least 10,000 troops composed of police, military, and Coast Guard personnel will be deployed for the upcoming elections, authorities added.
