In a significant leadership change, the chief of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office has been removed from his position. This action comes directly after a tragic shooting incident that claimed the lives of three police officers in Sibulan town.
Leadership Change and Investigation
Police Colonel Criscent Tiguelo was officially relieved from his post on January 12, 2026. The order was issued by Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) Director, Police Brigadier General Arnold Ibay. To ensure the continuity of police services in the province, Deputy Regional Director for Operations Police Colonel Lito Patay has been designated as the officer-in-charge.
General Ibay emphasized that Patay's appointment aims to prevent any disruption in public safety services while a thorough investigation into the incident is conducted.
Recalling the Tragic Incident
The relief order traces back to a violent event involving Police Staff Sergeant Bonifacio Saycon. Reports indicate that Saycon first shot a female employee at SAB Bar in Sibulan for reasons still under investigation.
The situation escalated dramatically when Saycon was allegedly being transported to the police station. He reportedly opened fire, killing Sibulan Municipal Police Station chief Police Captain Jose Edrohil Cimafranca inside his vehicle. Also killed in the attack were Cimafranca's companions, Police Senior Master Sergeant Tristan Joseph Chua and Patrolman Rey Albert Temblor.
Following the shooting, Saycon surrendered to the Tanjay City Police Station. He now faces multiple murder charges alongside administrative cases.
PNP Directive and Ethical Reminders
In light of the incident, General Ibay issued a stern directive to all personnel under his command. He ordered strict adherence to Section 3.1 of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Ethical Doctrine, which mandates the highest standards of morality, decency, and professionalism.
Personnel were explicitly warned against engaging in illegal activities. The warning specifically mentioned frequenting residential houses for leisure and visiting gambling dens, unless such visits are part of official police duties.
This move underscores the PNP's commitment to maintaining discipline and integrity within its ranks, especially following events that shake public trust.
