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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP says open to independent probe amid torture claims by suspects in Bulacan cop slay case

PNP says open to independent probe amid torture claims by suspects in Bulacan cop slay case

Published Feb 13, 2026 03:51 pm
Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo)
Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Friday, Feb. 13, that it is open to any independent inquiry into allegations of torture raised by some of the suspects in the killing of a Bulacan police officer, whose body was found in a septic tank last month.
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP chief, emphasized that standard procedures were observed during the arrest and detention of those involved in the killing of Police Staff Sergeant Renato Casauay Jr.
“The Philippine National Police strictly follows established procedures, especially our existing policy that ensures that the rights of any accused in a crime [are] protected,” he said in a statement.
Earlier, the National Press Club (NPC) expressed serious concern over the arrest of Oliver Paul Mauricio, son of journalist Orlan Mauricio, a member of the NPC and Metro News Bulacan, over the case.
The NPC was also concerned by the alleged torture of Mauricio, saying it was “extremely troubling.”
But Nartatez stressed that the PNP does not tolerate torture or any form of human rights violation. He said strict internal rules are in place to address any wrongdoing by any police personnel.
He added that the PNP is prepared to present documents and records if an inquiry is conducted by the Commission on Human Rights or any other oversight body.
“[W]e welcome any effort to question the procedure and we are open to any investigation in the spirit of truth and transparency,” he stated.
Casauay was killed on January 24 in Malolos City and his remains were recovered from a septic tank a week after.
Police identified the suspected gunman as Julian Salamat, who is allegedly Casauay’s intelligence asset at the Drug Enforcement Group.
Salamat allegedly shot Casauay after the cop arrested one of the suspect’s cohorts in a drug syndicate.
So far, seven suspects were under police custody, including Salamat who was arrested by authorities in Tagum City, Davao del Norte on February 4.
Meanwhile, four additional suspects remain at large.

Related Tags

PNP Casauay Bulacan septic tank Julian Salamat torture
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