Take 3 for senior cop on 'Berdugo' probe in Capitol
Chief Inspector Leroy Rapiz, Group Director of the 608th Provincial Mobile Group is now all willing to grace the invite of the Committee on Public Order and Security.
In fact, with the 2nd letter sent, Chief Inspector Rapiz now felt not just assured but also inspired thus the vow to honor the legislative investigation.
His counsel, lawyer Tranquilino Gale has since maintained though that "legal ramifications" are present in the event of Rapiz' presence in the investigation. Further still, Rapiz' lawyer also questioned the legality of the legislative probe alongside more questions raised on the propriety of the committee's work.
The apparent change of heart and change of mind was subject of the latest excuse letter sent by the Chief Inspector's counsel to the committee.
To recall, Rapiz did not show up in the initial schedule concerned about self-incrimination. Yet Committee chair, First District Board Member Richard Garin wrote anew explaining the need for his presence. Further still was Garin's assurance of the committee's intent to make sure that nobody's constitutional right is ever violated in the legislative investigation.
"Certainly, we highly appreciate and understand your Committee's sincere efforts to serve your respective constituents and to effectively perform your mandate. We have further amplified to our client that your assurance to him that he will not be subjected to any self-incrimination during his appearance, is more than an assurance but even an inspiration for him to honor your invitation," excerpts of the letter went.
As such, Rapiz vows now to attend albeit with certain pre-conditions.
Yes, the Chief Inspector will be a committee resource person "provided it will not conflict with his official duties and functions."
Yes too, the Chief Inspector will appear before the probe body provided "he will be allowed to attend with the presence and assistance of his lawyers of choice."
The second official invite was re-sent by Garin through Rapiz' superiors, Senior Superintendent Ricardo Dela Paz and Chief Superintendent Isagani Cuevas.
Dela Paz is Iloilo Provincial Police Officer Director while Cuevas is Police Regional Office 6 chief.
Rapiz' counsel in responding to the second invite went beyond Rapiz' superiors. Such as copies were furnished to father and son, Governor Niel Tupas Sr. and Fifth District Congressman Niel Tupas Jr.
To note, the committee's investigation stemmed from the July privilege speech of Board Member Jeneda Salcedo who charged Rapiz of "Nazi rule" in Northern Iloilo.
Rapiz is to be the main character of the committee's investigation with a call made for his dismissal from service.
First hearing heard the testimonies of Sara Vice Mayor Neptali Salcedo Jr. and the town police chief. Board Member Salcedo was also heard by the committee as she vowed to pursue the matter despite earlier "peace talks" with Rapiz.