Laguna: A patrolman assigned at the Laguna Police Provincial Office is facing dismissal following his involvement in a robbery holdup in Taguig City in June 2024, the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, IAS chief Inspector Gen. Brigido Dulay stated that he has submitted to the office of PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil the recommendation to dismiss the police officer, whose name was withheld. The patrolman was found guilty of grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.

Dulay emphasized that the agency will not tolerate such criminal behavior from law enforcers and underscored the IAS’ commitment to holding police officers accountable for misconduct, even when off duty.

Reports indicate that the policeman, along with two civilian accomplices, carried out a robbery at gunpoint while riding two motorcycles in Western Bicutan, Taguig City. The suspects targeted a civilian, forcibly taking cash and a cellular phone. The victim’s wife, who witnessed the crime, immediately alerted a passing barangay patrol unit, prompting a rapid police response.

Officers from the District Mobile Force Battalion assigned to the Taguig Sub-Station swiftly pursued the fleeing suspects, resulting in their apprehension and the recovery of the stolen items. Upon verification, authorities discovered that one of the arrested individuals was an active-duty police officer and he had used his PNP-issued firearm to commit the crime.

‘The IAS is steadfast in ensuring that rogue cops are removed from the service. This kind of criminal behavior is precisely what damages public trust in the PNP,’ Dulay said. ‘We commend the swift and decisive action of our fellow officers who arrested the suspect. Their courage and commitment to justice prove that the PNP remains dedicated to upholding the rule of law – even when it means apprehending one of their own.’

Dulay further underscored the significance of proactive policing and vigilance in curbing misconduct within the ranks, particularly when officers misuse their authority while off duty. The IAS of the PNP is the institutional watchdog of the PNP mandated to investigate police misconduct, uphold internal discipline, and ensure that law enforcers adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards.