President Marcos has accepted the resignation of National Police Commission (Napolcom) commissioner Edilberto Leonardo, who was allegedly linked to the killing of retired police general Wesley Barayuga.
Malacañang confirmed on Monday, Oct. 14, that the President has accepted Leonardo's resignation.
In a letter dated Oct. 8, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin wrote to Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, informing him of Marcos' acceptance of the Napolcom commissioner's resignation.
"This refers to the letter dated 04 October 2024 of Mr. Edilberto Dela Cruz Leonardo, tendering his resignation as Commissioner, Representing the Law Enforcement Sector, National Police Commission, Department of the Interior and Local Government. On behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., this is to inform you that his resignation has been accepted, effective immediately," the letter read.
Leonardo submitted his resignation to the Office of the President (OP) after the expose of Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza that he and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) chairperson Royina Garma ordered a hit on Barayuga for his alleged involvement in illegal drugs operations.
On the filing of criminal or administrative cases against Leonardo following the revelations during the quad committee hearing on the war on drugs, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said "the Palace will support the filing but will leave the decision to file entirely to the DOJ (Department of Justice) or Ombudsman."
Meanwhile, according to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar Chavez, Marcos is already considering someone to replace Leonardo, and the Palace "will make the announcement at the proper time."
READ MORE: Ex-PNP colonel tagged in Barayuga killing quits Napolcom post