Police battalion in Basilan relieved from post over alleged hazing

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has relieved from their post the entire Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-B following a viral hazing incident in Lamitan, Basilan. 

A total of 70 officers and men were affected by the order, including 12 non-commissioned officers that directly participated in the alleged hazing of fellow policemen during their reception rites as newly deployed troops in the town of Lamitan. 

The incident happened between 12 noon and 6 p.m. on February 6, confirmed PNP spokesman Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño.

“Sinabi po ni chief PNP (Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr) na mahigpit na pinagbabawal ng PNP ang anomang hazing sa lahat ng training, orientation and welcome rites ng ating personnel,” Tuaño said.

(According to PNP chief, any form of hazing during training, orientation or welcome rites for our personnel is strictly prohibited.)

In videos released by the PNP Monday, a couple of policemen in field service uniforms could be seen kneeling on the ground as other cops in civilian clothes took turns in hitting them with arnis and wooden sticks. 

One victim appeared to have lost consciousness after getting hit in the face with what looked like a slipper. 

In another clip apparently taken after the incident, four cops were filmed with bruises on their thighs. 

A total of 129 cops are expected to lodge complaints against their tormentors who may be slapped with  administrative and criminal charges. 

“May mga trenta na tayong napa-medical, titignan yung may mga pasa para makadagdag ebidensya para palakasin yung sinasabing hazing na ginamit sa kanila, Tuaño said. 

(We have subjected 30 people to medical examination. Their bruises will be examined which could prove that hazing was employed on them.) — RSJ, GMA Integrated News