BARANGAY officials in Matictic, Norzagaray town are facing charges filed by Central Luzon police for alleged violation of local ordinances, regulations, and health protocols set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF).
According to Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Luzon Director Valeriano De Leon, Matictic village officials led by Chairman Marcial Lucas allegedly permitted a mass gathering at Bakas River in the barangay where a large crowd swam and went on a picnic on Sunday, May 23, 2021.
De Leon said Bulacan Police Provincial Director Lawrence Cajipe and officers of the Norzagaray municipal police station received information regarding mass gathering at Bakas River and upon verification, police found out numerous people were swimming along the river, which is stretching four to seven kilometers, while others were occupying bamboo cottages erected along the riverbank.
De Leon said joint personnel of Norzagaray police and 2nd Police Provincial Mobile Force Company, accompanied by Norzagaray Mayor Alfredo Germar, advised the crowd to stop all activities and vacate the vicinity.
Some 75 individuals were issued provincial citation tickets for violating the provincial ordinance on health protocols.
The regional police chief said initial investigation revealed that three entrances going to Bakas River were erected and opened by barangay officials, under the guidance and clearance of the village chairman.
Individuals gained entry to the site by paying P20 each.
The police invited all persons involved in the facilitation of the above-mentioned event for proper disposition while appropriate criminal and administrative complaints will be filed against the barangay officials as evidence warranted. (JTD)