MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has formed a task force to look into the hostage crisis at Quirino Grandstand in Manila that resulted to the death of eight Chinese nationals.
DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo said the joint DILG-Department of Justice task force will determine the series of events during the incident and those who would be held accountable for the bloody outcome.
“We want to know what really happened, including the possible lapses and glitches in the operating procedures of the assault team,” Robredo said.
Police Superintendent Francisco Peñaflor, Special Police Assistant to the Secretary, has been designated to head the joint task force.
"The team shall look into all angles of the case — if there was a strategic and coordinated operations plan, if the rules of engagement were followed, if the areas was properly cordoned off from bystanders and the media — and then make proper recommendations to the President," Robredo added.
He said the task force shall also conduct an inventory on the available gadgets and equipment and to review standard operating procedures in handling a hostage crisis.
"Evidently, the police lack the proper equipment and the appropriate skills and training to handle these kinds of situations."
He also said he would check the alleged improper mishandling and arrest of former police Senior Inspector Rolando Mendoza’s brother — Senior Police Officer 2 Gregorio Mendoza — amid the negotiation.
"It could have agitated the hostage-taker," Robredo pointed out.
Earlier, the ex-policeman held hostage a busload of tourists for several hours at Quirino Grandstand over frustrations resulting from his dismissal from the police force.
He was charged with extortion, robbery and physical injuries before the Office of the Ombudsman.
Robredo said he would order a review of media protocols and schedule a meeting with broadcast leaders to discuss and agree on certain policies during delicate situations such as a hostage crisis. - By Dennis Carcamo
