SEVEN police officers have been relieved from their posts following allegations that they imposed unauthorized additional fees on trainees at the Cordillera Administrative Region Special Training Unit (RTSU-CAR).
The relief order, dated April 19, was confirmed by PNP Training Service Director Brig. Gen. Rolindo Suguilon during a press briefing on Monday. The implicated officers include a police colonel, a police major, a police lieutenant, a police master sergeant, and three patrolmen.
The decision to relieve the officers was a direct response to a viral social media post that surfaced over the weekend. The post, uploaded on April 17 by a user identified as Greafin Bell Valdez-Olsim Maranes-Dodon, alleged that police trainees in the Field Training Program were being charged an extra P500 for accommodation in the required billeting areas, which serve as temporary housing or barracks. Brig. Gen. Suguilon stated that he became aware of these allegations on April 18 and immediately initiated an investigation.
Brig. Gen. Suguilon emphasized the PNP’s strict “zero tolerance policy for all forms of irregularities committed by our personnel” and confirmed that a team of investigators has been dispatched to look into the matter.
When questioned about the credibility of the social media post, Suguilon affirmed that “all reports, whether anonymous or fictitious, we will pay attention to.” He stressed that investigating such claims is crucial for maintaining integrity within the PNP, particularly concerning its training programs. The most recent Field Training Program at RTSU CAR concluded in December.
While the identities and specific roles of the relieved officers were not disclosed, the swift action taken by the PNP underscores its commitment to transparency and accountability.
The investigation aims to thoroughly examine the allegations and ensure that any personnel found to be involved in misconduct face appropriate consequences. This move is part of the PNP’s ongoing efforts to uphold public trust and maintain the integrity of its training institutions and personnel.
