The Catanduanes Police Provincial Office (CatPPO) is counting on San Andres chief of police PMaj. Francis I. Tabo I to boost the campaign against illegal mining to prevent a recurrence of the July 27, 2026 incident that led to the death of a Caramoran resident.
In approving the request of Mayor Aly T. Romano for Tabo‘s retention, PNP Provincial Director PCol. Virgilio R. Buena said that his office expects the police chief to further strengthen operational oversight, exercise heightened vigilance over developments within his area of responsibility, and intensify the implementation of appropriate law enforcement measures against a repeat of similar incidents.
Emphasizing that the reported mining site falls within the territorial jurisdiction of the San Andres Municipal Police Station based on the findings of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the police director anticipates that PMaj. Tabo shall enforce all environmental laws, rules, regulations, and other pertinent statutes with utmost diligence, consistency, and impartiality.
Stressing that his retention at his post should be viewed as an opportunity to reaffirm his commitment to his sworn duties and responsibilities, PCol. Buena stated that the incident should serve as a clear reminded that unit commanders are expected to maintain heightened awareness of developments within their respective areas of responsibility and to take timely, decisive, and lawful action against all forms of illegal activities, particularly illegal mining.
Shortly after receiving the PD’s letter on Tabo’s relief, the local chief executive requested that he remain at the post, citing his commendable performance, accomplishments, and valuable contributions in the maintenance of peace and order in the municipality.
PD Buena informed the mayor that the earlier decision to relieve Tabo was undertaken as part of the PNP’s standard administrative response whenever a significant incident or matter of serious public concern occurs within the AOR.
“Such measures are intended to uphold the integrity of police operations, preserve public trust and confidence, ensure an impartial assessment of the circumstances, and reinforce the accountability expected of all unit commanders,” he stated.