By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it has promptly taken action on a road incident involving a police officer in Manila earlier this week.
In a statement Friday, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said he has ordered the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG) to investigate the cop who allegedly poked his gun at a motorcycle rider during a road altercation along F. Manalo Street, Barangay 897, Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila on May 12.
“The PNP takes this matter seriously. While our personnel face real risks in the line of duty, there is no excuse for behavior that undermines public trust. We have already initiated administrative action against the police officer involved, and we will see this through with full transparency and fairness,” Marbil said.
Initial findings revealed that the police officer involved was assigned to a polling center in Manila as part of covert security operations during the election period.
The traffic confrontation with the civilian rider escalated, prompting the officer to draw his firearm.
Responding police personnel assigned to the Police Assistance Desk at the polling center immediately intervened. Both parties were later brought to the barangay for settlement.
The police officer has been reassigned to the District Personnel Holding and Accounting Section of the Manila Police District. He has been disarmed pending the results of the administrative proceedings.
The officer has been formally charged with grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.
Marbil also reminded all motorists to exercise patience, discipline, and composure while on the road, especially during traffic encounters.
“The Filipino people deserve a police force that is professional, disciplined, and committed to protecting their rights at all times,” Marbil said. (PNA)
