Commander of moonlighting HPG cop included in PNP probe

The commander of a Highway Patrol Group (HPG) operative who was caught moonlighting as a security escort has been included in the Philippine National Police (PNP) probe on the prohibited practice.

According to a dzBB report by Glen Juego on Tuesday, PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil issued the order after the HPG personnel and a soldier were found to be serving as motorcycle escorts.

The report said Marbil sought to determine if their immediate supervisors were aware of such activities in their ranks.

Members of the PNP force are barred from moonlighting, Marbil said, especially during on-duty hours.

For his part, HPG chief Brigadier General Jay Cumigad on Monday reprimanded his wards over the incident, the report said.

Policemen found guilty of moonlighting will face administrative charges, while the former soldier will be charged with usurpation of authority after allegedly placing a police sticker on his motorcycle for moonlighting purposes.

Earlier, Marbil called for the dismissal of two members of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF), who were found to have been moonlighting as security guards of a Chinese citizen.

The two SAF members, who were supposed to be deployed in Zamboanga City, were arrested after figuring in a brawl at an exclusive subdivision in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

Muntinlupa City Mayor Rozzano Rufino "Ruffy" Biazon said that the local government was verifying if they were employed by an individual connected to an Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGOs).

Nine other SAF personnel are under investigation following the incident. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/ VDV, GMA Integrated News