IPPO probes cops linked to quarry business

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A small number of Iloilo Police Provincial Office personnel are reportedly engaged in the quarry business.

But their alleged involvement in illegal quarry operations remains to be substantiated.

Still, the IPPO leadership did not let the report slide.

Col. Bayani Razalan, Iloilo police chief, said he ordered IPPO personnel who were reportedly engaged in the quarry business to report to his office.

He declined to disclose the number, places of assignment, and ranks of the personnel ordered to report.

“I instructed to report those who were rumored and actually engaged in quarry operations,” he said.

Razalan stressed that the Philippine National Police is strict with personnel engaged in illegal activities, including illegal quarrying.

“We have been constantly reminding them not engage themselves in illegal activities – whether directly or indirectly,” he said.

Razalan added that he would order the relief of police officers engaged in quarry operations in areas where they are assigned.

Earlier, the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office said it was conducting a case buildup against six people allegedly linked to illegal quarry operations in Iloilo province.

The identities of the six people have not been disclosed pending the completion of the legal process.

The office, however, pointed to the alleged involvement of influential personalities, including public officials and members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, making the process more challenging.

Quarry operations are regulated to ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and permit requirements, as illegal extraction can damage river systems, affect nearby communities, and deprive the government of proper fees and revenues.