MANILA, Philippines – The police chiefs of Agoo town and La Union province were relieved from their positions as a new team took over investigating the killing of former La Union congressman Eufranio Eriguel.

This was announced by Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao on Monday, May 21, just 9 days after the killing of the former lawmaker and his two aides.

“PD (Provincial Director) of La Union and Agoo COP (Chief of Police) were both relieved to give way to the investigation that will be handled by the new set of investigators. This is part of the PNP leadership’s prerogative to ensure a thorough investigation of the assassination of Ex-Cong Eriguel and the other victims,” Bulalacao said in a text message.

Senior Superintendent (SSupt) Adolfo Rafanan replaced SSupt Henario Sapiera as La Union police chief, while Police Chief Inspector (PCI) Bernabe Oridillo replaced PCI Alfredo Padilla Jr in leading Agoo town cops.

Sacking the two officials does not automatically mean liability for the crime. The PNP temporarily relieved the two from their posts to see whether they had lapses which led to the high-profile homicide. – Rappler.com