A supposed “welcome rites” for newly assigned police officers in Lamitan City, Basilan turned into alleged abuse after videos showing policemen being physically assaulted circulated on social media.
In the videos, several uniformed police officers were seen kneeling on the ground with their hands behind their backs when they were suddenly struck in the face by a plainclothes policeman using a hard object. Other plainclothes officers were also seen holding wooden sticks and taking turns hitting the victims.
In another clip, one policeman was flicked on the ear before being punched in the stomach. Separate footage later showed the injuries and bruises sustained by the victims.
According to Chief PIO and PNP Spokesperson PBGen Randulf Tuaño, the incident reportedly happened during a supposed “welcome rites” for newly recruited members of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14B (RMFB-14B), who had just completed their Basic Internal Security Operations (BISOC) training.
Initially, 18 newly assigned policemen filed complaints, saying they were subjected to humiliating and physically harmful activities such as being treated like dogs and being beaten with arnis sticks. The number of complainants has since risen to more than 100.
"May mga 30 na po tayo mahigit na nagpa-medical at base po doon titignan po nila kung sino po yung may mga halimbawa, may mga pasa o mga hematoma," said Tuaño.
"Kaya sinabi po doon ni Chief PNP kanina na mahigpit na pinagbabawal ng Philippine National Police ang anumang uri ng hazing sa lahat ng training, orientation at welcome rites ng ating mga personnel," he added.
As a result, 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.
Authorities said those found guilty could face both criminal and administrative charges. The involved officers are currently under the custody of the PNP.
In the meantime, personnel from RMFB-14A have been deployed to temporarily fill the vacant posts to ensure continuity of police operations in the area.
