Sixteen police officers in Dolores, Eastern have been temporarily relieved from their duties after reportedly drinking inside their municipal police station during a Christmas party on December 15.

In an interview at Camp Crame on December 18, Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) spokesperson PLt.Col Analiza Armeza confirmed that 15 non-commissioned officers, along with their Chief of Police, a captain, were relieved from duty following the incident.

The police captain was held accountable under the principle of 'command responsibility.'

According to RH Edniel Parrosa's report on dzRH's Operation Tulong, the incident, which occurred while the officers were on duty, on-going investigations also revealed that another non-uniformed PNP personnel was also involved in the drinking incident.

Armeza emphasized that drinking alcohol while on active duty inside police premises is strictly prohibited under PNP regulations and protocols.

"Under sa ating protocols and guidelines bawal kasi ang mag-inom sa loob ng police station kaya yun nga after we have received the report nagkaroon ng investigation and if mapatunayan na meron nga error or violation of protocols ng ating involved personnel ay meron merom karampatang penalty," PRO-8 spokesperson noted.

Armeza clarified that there were no reported incidents during the drinking session.

"Sa report walang gulo na nangyari. 'Yun lang talaga yung pictures na kumalat," she said.

Authorities are currently assessing the accountability of the officers involved, especially after photos of the incident circulated on social media.

Once their violations are confirmed, they will face appropriate 'administrative and disciplinary actions' in accordance with existing rules

Meanwhile, PRO-8 expressed gratitude to concerned citizens who reported the incident, noting that public vigilance strengthens transparency and accountability within the police force.