By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. approved a pre-charge evaluation of nine PNP Academy (PNPA) officials over an alleged April 3 hazing incident.
“There are about nine officers there and I have approved it (pre-charge evaluation), and of course, may mga proseso tayo yung sinusunod,” Nartatez said at a press briefing.
He said a reshuffle will follow involving the senior officers under investigation.
Those involved include six commissioned officers and three non-commissioned officers: two colonels, two police majors, two senior master sergeants, one chief master sergeant, one brigadier general, and one major general.
The pre-charge evaluation was recommended by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM).
Nartatez reiterated the PNP’s zero tolerance for hazing.
“Inuulit ko, walang puwang ang hazing sa ating hanay. Ito ay isang tahasang paglabag sa disiplina, dangal, at sa ating paninindigan bilang mga alagad ng batas. Hindi natin ito kailanman palalampasin o hahayaan,” he said.
Three cadets are in custody in connection with the hazing incident, while four more were identified and will face charges for violation of Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.
The suspects were accused of exposing over 20 PNPA underclassmen to drain cleaner and muriatic acid during hazing, causing burns and injuries.
In the same briefing, Interior Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla said more than 20 cadets suffered severe chemical burns as a result of the hazing.
“They were subjected to extreme torture. They’re undergoing medical treatment and psychological treatment. The injuries are not life-threatening, but the damage is too much,” he said.
The National Police Commission (Napolcom), meanwhile, has condemned the incident and ordered reforms within the PNPA.
“Hazing will stop under our watch,” Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan said in a statement Monday. (PNA)
