Western Visayas top cop: Reassess police surveillance protocols

ILOILO CITY—After the death of a policeman conducting surveillance in Iloilo province, Western Visayas Philippine National Police (PNP) Director Brigadier General Jack Wanky has ordered a reassessment of police protocols to avoid a repeat of the incident.

“We have to see if protocols are being followed,” said Wanky, director of the Police Regional Office (PRO-6).

Police Corporal Reo Manero of the Pototan Municipal Police Station was shot dead by suspect Michael D. Solis in Pototan town while the policeman was conducting surveillance last April 8.

To avoid a similar fatal case in the future, Wanky said there should be other measures that could be done.

For instance, Wanky mentioned that there should be buddy system wherein policemen will be working in pairs so they have assistance in case something happens.

When Manero was shot, he was working alone, and had no back up.

Aside from the assessment of surveillance protocols, Wanky said that the PRO-6’s Internal Affairs Service is also conducting investigations in other surveillance operations.

Meanwhile, Wanky assured the Manero family in Lambunao town that additional financial aid will be given.

Wanky initially handed over P50,000 to Manero’s widow.

“The loss and bravery of Police Corporal Reo Manero are deeply felt by the entire PRO-6 community. His commitment and passion for duty will forever be honored and remembered,” said Wanky in a statement.