"General" Julio Quirino, 49, who claimed to be the "World Commander of the International Police", died Wednesday at the Bacolod Sanitarium and Hospital, but his family and friends refused to disclose the cause of his death.

Lorenzo Alminaza, legal counsel of Quirino, told the DAILY STAR last night, that his client successfully fulfilled his "Interpol mission" which has international implications, despite his physical condition.

Alminaza said Quirino was not only his client, but also his friend. He said Quirino was a very real person and his background as Interpol commander could be counterchecked in the historical records of the Philippine military. Ironically, Alminaza claimed, Quirino was not treated accordingly in Bacolod City, but many dignitaries and world leaders including "George Bush" gave much respect and trust to him.

Quirino, who was a member of the Interpol for 40 years, had been jailed with his officers "Captain" Norman Bitar, "Colonel" Manuel Basa, "Captain" Julius Santillan, and "Captain" Rolando Española for staging an alleged assault at Police Precinct 3 in Brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City on Feb. 2.

Alminaza said the court recently dismissed the illegal possession charges against Quirino and Bitar, while a hearing is still on for the direct assault charges against them.

The wife and children of Quirino refused to give interviews, saying they want their privacy to be respected.

The body of Quirino now lies in state at the Rolling Hills Memorial Chapels in Mandalagan, Bacolod City, and is guarded by two Interpol members in camouflage uniforms.*DMG

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