Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into four police officers allegedly involved in indiscriminate firing incidents during the recent New Year celebrations.
Strict Warning Ignored, Disciplinary Action Promised
In a strong statement, Nartatez condemned the actions, which he said endangered public safety and demonstrated a severe lack of discipline and an abuse of power. He emphasized that any involvement in reckless shooting is unacceptable and carries serious consequences, as it is both a violation of the law and a breach of professional conduct.
"My instruction was clear and simple: Do not use any firearm to greet the New Year or in any celebration," Nartatez stated. He expressed his disappointment, noting that he had trusted all uniformed personnel to maintain discipline and focus on their peace and order duties, which was why the PNP did not resort to taping the muzzles of service firearms as a preventive measure.
Addressing the four erring policemen directly, he issued a stern warning: "And to these four policemen who violated that instruction, pasensyahan na lang tayo. Once the investigation is done and found you liable, I will make sure that you will be kicked out of the police service."
Identified Officers and Immediate Actions Taken
Based on PNP data released on January 4, 2026, the officers under investigation are:
- A Police Master Sergeant assigned in Surigao del Sur
- A Police Senior Master Sergeant in Iloilo
- A Patrolman in Parañaque City
- A Patrolman in Cagayan de Oro City
Nartatez has already directed the Regional Directors of the Caraga, Western Visayas, and National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) to disarm and cause the arrest of the three policemen in their jurisdictions once located. A follow-up operation is also underway against the patrolman from Cagayan de Oro City, who remains at large.
Personal Oversight and Broader Crackdown
The PNP chief assured the public that he is personally monitoring the progress of all cases related to indiscriminate firing. He stressed that the four policemen face not only dismissal from the service but also criminal prosecution.
"We are also conducting an investigation to identify those responsible for the other cases of indiscriminate firing," Nartatez added. "They need to be identified and put behind bars for compromising the safety of the people." This indicates a wider crackdown beyond just the four identified police officers, targeting all individuals who illegally discharged their firearms during the holiday period.
The PNP's firm stance underscores its commitment to holding its personnel accountable and ensuring that the New Year celebration, a time for joy, is not marred by reckless actions that threaten community safety.
