The National Police Commission in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (NAPOLCOM-BARMM) has also launched an investigation into the alleged hazing and maltreatment of police recruits in Lamitan City, Basilan.

In an official statement, NAPOLCOM-BARMM said it is closely monitoring the viral video circulating on social media involving the alleged abuse of MILF/MNLF and regular quota recruits at the headquarters of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14B (RMFB-14B) under the Police Regional Office BAR.

"In response, the NAPOLCOM BARMM Regional Office has initiated an initial investigation to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident," the statement read.

"This action is in line with our mandate to ensure that all police personnel and recruits are treated with dignity and in accordance with the law, established rules, and human rights standards," it noted.

Meanwhile, the agency also urged the public to allow due process to take its course and to refrain from spreading unverified information that may prejudice the ongoing investigation.

NAPOLCOM-BARMM assured the public that appropriate actions will be taken based on the results of the probe and that accountability will be pursued if violations are established.

The Philippine National Police announced on Monday that 12 non-commissioned police officers were relieved from their posts for allegedly participating in the abuse.

Around 60 personnel, including the battalion commander of RMFB-14B, were also relieved from duty.

More than 100 newly assigned policemen have filed complaints regarding the incident.