A STORE selling foodstuff and other goods at low prices to soldiers and their dependents, and located in one of the camps of the military had lost a “huge amount of money” to thieves, the military reported on Tuesday.
The theft, which was discovered on Monday morning, occurred at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Commissary and Exchange Service (Afpces)at the Bonifacio Naval Station in Fort Bonifacio, Makati City, said the Navy Public Affairs Office chief, LCdr. Marineth Domingo.
Domingo did not provide other details, saying the incident is still being investigated by the police, although she initially said that a huge amount of money was taken by the thieves.
Afpces, also known as “Store” or “PX Store” has branches in nearly all major military installations in the country. It sells goods at low prices to soldiers, their dependents and even civilians working inside camps.
Afpces, which sells tax-free merchandize, was introduced by the military as part of its efforts to boost the morale of its members, in addition to housing and other privileges which seek to elevate the welfare of soldiers and enhance their morale.
Domingo said the theft in Fort Bonifacio was discovered at around 7 a.m. on Monday after the store manager found out that the money kept in her office was missing from the vault.
The money was the proceeds of the store’s sales during the weekend.
“The vault was opened but not forcibly,” she said, hinting it may have been an inside job, but which she further refused to comment.
“The Navy is working closely with the authorities to facilitate the speedy disposition of the case. The Navy, likewise, maintains its responsibility in maintaining the safety and security of its tenant units,” Domingo said.
Until Tuesday, the Navy said policemen were still working on the case.
Domingo said even security personnel tasked to secure the camp noticed nothing unusual before and during the commission of the crime.
“There was no commotion reported by our roving watches and security personnel detailed in the area nor any unauthorized entry of unauthorized personnel within the base premises,” she said.
According to Domingo, it was only in the morning when the store manager reported for work that it was discovered that a theft had occurred.
Rene Acosta
