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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews/25 November) — Invoking the Philippine National Police Law, Mayor Vicente Y. Emano ordered Wednesday the 20-day suspension of PO3 Lonie J. Rementizo who has been ordered arrested by the court for alleged multiple child abuse and rape cases.
“I have already issued a suspension order beginning Monday. Ang gitugot sa balaod (The law allows for) 15 days suspension but I made it 20 days in time for the formal investigation of the case,” said Emano, referring to the administrative complaints filed against Rementizo before the People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB).
Regional Trial Court Judge Jose Escobido has issued a warrant of arrest against the police officer and ordered the forfeiture of his P120,000 bail after repeatedly failing to attend court hearings.
Rementizo is facing child and sexual abuse cases for allegedly bringing several underage high school students to Hightime Motel in Barangay Kauswagan in September.
Rementizo’s whereabouts is not known as of this report. MindaNews tried to contact his lawyer for comment but got no reply.
In meting out the 20-day suspension, Emano cited Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and RA 6975 or the PNP Act in taking jurisdiction over Rementizo.
Tubaga women’s coalition which is supporting the alleged victims of Rementizo welcomed the development. “This is long-time coming and we have been asking the authorities to suspend Rementizo,” said Tubaga convenor lawyer Beverly Musni.
She also reiterated their call for a 60-day suspension on the cop. (BenCyrus G. Ellorin/MindaNews)
