Cop who allegedly hit security guard during ‘tension’ in NAIA relieved

The police officer who allegedly hit a security guard during a “tension” in Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has been relieved from his post amid the ongoing investigation, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Monday.

In a press briefing,  PNP chief Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr.  clarified that no shootout happened during the incident as earlier reported, which involved Aviation Security Group-National Capital Region (AVSEG-NCR) chief Police Colonel Cesar Regente.

“Administratively ni-relieved niya ‘yung chief ng AVSEG-NCR nang para sa ganun kung mag-conduct ng investigation at least hindi siya maka-apekto sa resulta ng investigation,” Azurin said.

(Administratively, he relieved the chief of AVSEG-NCR so in case of an investigation at least he would not affect its results.)

The PNP chief said Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) acting director Police Colonel Anthony Aberin ordered the relief of Regente.

Aberin's group is conducting an investigation into the incident which happened on December 1.

Regente allegedly hit a security guard when his group was prevented from entering through the lobby exit area.

“I have already directed the administrative relief of the concerned senior police officer to give way to an impartial investigation of the incident,” Aberin said.

“It has always been my instruction to our field commanders to coordinate and give full support to our partner agencies involved in the security of our airports,” he added.

According to Azurin, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) implemented a new policy which removed the initial screening for passengers upon entrance to the airport.

Azurin said the PNP was concerned with the new policy, and sent personnel to the airport for inspection.—LDF, GMA Integrated News