October 31, 2023

I am terribly disappointed and greatly disturbed by reports that a police officer might be involved in the disappearance of a beauty pageant candidate.

Certainly, I am at the forefront of those fighting for the protection of women, children and even the elderly, and I am committed to defending them at all time and at all costs.

In this regard, I have instructed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct a thorough investigation on this very serious incident.

At this point, I want to inform the public that the PNP has already relieved from his post the policeman in question to remove any doubts of possible whitewash or cover-up.

In the event that all the evidence gathered point to the subject police officer’s possible involvement, we assure the public of a fair, proper and impartial investigation.

Hindi po namin kukunsintihin o pagtatakpan ang maling gawain ng sino mang miyembro ng PNP.

Umasa kayo na ang pamunuan ng DILG at PNP ay kakampi ng hustisya at kasama ng ating mga kababayan sa pagkondena ng kasamaan o anumang krimen.

I have also instructed our policemen to relentlessly pursue all actionable leads and do everything that they can within the bounds of the law to rescue the missing victim, and return her safely to her family.

We also appeal to everyone who might have any knowledge or information on Catherine’s whereabouts to come forward and get in touch with the PNP, for the quick resolution of this matter.

Original Article at: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/STATEMENT-OF-SEC-BENHUR-ABALOS-ON-THE-MISSING-MISS-GRAND-PHILIPPINES-2023-CANDIDATE/NC-2023-1222