Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 17)— Four police officers allegedly involved in the death of a three year-old girl during an anti-drug operation will face administrative and criminal charges, a regional police office said Wednesday.
A report from the CALABARZON police said PCPL Mark Jherson Olaño faces homicide charges for the death of Myca Ulpina, who was shot during a police drug raid in their home in Rodriguez, Rizal on June 29.
Authorities will also file complaints for grave neglect of duty against PLTCOL Resty Damaso for command responsibility, and against PCMS Vladmir Dizon for allowing personnel to handle the case without supervision from a senior investigator.
PCMS Gerry Cordero, who was team leader during the raid, will face a complaint for grave irregularity in the performance of duty.
Initial investigation also showed there was no police commissioned officer during the operation, which violates the Standard Operating Procedure of law enforcers.
“This incident was very unfortunate, and we extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Mica Ulpina, but we assure the public that no stone will be left unturned until we get to the bottom of this,” said PBGEN Edward Carranza, CALABARZON police chief.
A total of 20 police officers have been relieved for the death of Ulpina, who is believed to be the youngest victim of the administration’s drug war. The police said the father, Renato, who was also killed, used Myca as a “human shield,” but the mother denied this.
