The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has ordered an investigation into a Bacolod City police officer allegedly involved in the disappearance and killing of a businesswoman in Negros Occidental.
NAPOLCOM Commissioner Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan directed the Inspection, Monitoring and Investigation Service (IMIS) to conduct a motu proprio investigation after reports linked a member of the Bacolod City Police Office to the case.
The victim was identified as Kristine Joy Dignadice, 42, a resident of Victorias City. She was the registered owner of a Hyundai Accent sedan that was found abandoned and blood-stained in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday, October 29.
Commissioner Calinisan said the agency will take immediate action, stressing that the case involves an active police officer.
“The NAPOLCOM will ensure that due process is observed and that the erring police officer will be held fully accountable. The administrative case will proceed separately from any criminal proceedings filed before the court,” Calinisan stated.
On November 1, the suspect—identified as a police officer and the prime suspect in the case—voluntarily surrendered to Police Brigadier General Arnold Thomas C. Ibay, Regional Director of Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City.
Brig. Gen. Ibay described the officer’s surrender as a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation, reaffirming the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) commitment to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability within its ranks.
Commissioner Calinisan reiterated that NAPOLCOM remains firm in pursuing disciplinary action against police personnel who violate the law and the PNP’s Code of Conduct, assuring the public that justice will be served.
The case remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office.