Tuguegarao cop who allegedly hit tricycle driver relieved from post — PNP

A police officer in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan has been relieved from post for allegedly hitting a tricycle driver involved in a road incident, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. condemned the incident, saying that misconduct in uniform will not be tolerated within the organization.

“We do not tolerate ‘hoodlums in uniform.’ The immediate relief of the officer involved shows that our internal cleansing is in place,” Nartatez said.

“Hindi natin hahayaan na mantsahan ng iisang pulis ang dangal ng buong organisasyon. We are investigating this thoroughly to ensure justice for the victim,” he added.

Based on the initial police investigation, responding officers had flagged down the tricycle driver involved in a road collision as part of standard police response procedures. 

However, the driver allegedly fled the scene, prompting a pursuit that led to another collision involving another tricycle.

The police officer allegedly approached the driver and struck him on the head. This was recorded and later circulated online.

According to the PNP, the police officer involved, his commander, and team leader have been relieved from their posts to give way to an impartial investigation.

“To our personnel: your badge is a symbol of service, not a license for abuse. Ang utos natin ay malinaw—maximum tolerance at laging pairalin ang respeto sa karapatang pantao. If you cannot control your temper, you have no business being a police officer. We will be firm in our disciplinary actions,” Nartatez said. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News