Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has mandated a comprehensive review of protocols for handling police officers placed under restrictive custody. This directive comes in the wake of a stabbing incident involving two personnel from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) who were both detained within a police camp.
Incident Prompts Immediate Action
The violent altercation occurred on the morning of Tuesday, January 13, 2026. According to reports, the two policemen were preparing for a scheduled preliminary investigation at the Department of Justice when the suspect allegedly attacked the victim with a kitchen knife. Both individuals had been placed under restrictive custody in December in connection with the alleged theft of cash evidence seized during a Pogo raid in Bataan back in 2024.
While the CIDG has launched its own probe into the stabbing, General Nartatez emphasized the need for a broader examination. He wants the investigation to extend into potential adjustments of the rules governing PNP personnel in restrictive custody. "I have already directed all units and offices to conduct a review of the existing protocol to prevent a repeat of this unfortunate incident," Nartatez stated.
Focus on Behavioral Monitoring and Pressure
Nartatez pinpointed specific areas requiring scrutiny. A key focus will be on how custodians respond to observed changes in the behavior of detained personnel. It was reported that the suspect policeman had been exhibiting behavioral changes prior to the attack. The PNP chief also highlighted the intense psychological pressure experienced by personnel facing serious administrative or criminal charges, a factor that must be considered, especially during prolonged restrictive custody.
"Just because something is working does not mean that everything will always be alright. There is always room for improvement," Nartatez added, framing the case as an urgent call to refine often-overlooked policies.
Aftermath and Broader Orders
The wounded policeman is currently under observation at the PNP General Hospital. The suspect is expected to undergo necessary assessments and will face charges of frustrated murder.
Beyond the protocol review, Nartatez issued a wider directive to all PNP commanders. He ordered them to ensure proper supervision of their personnel, actively monitor their concerns, and act swiftly even on minor cases of misconduct. This move aims to foster a more responsive and preventative leadership environment within the police force.
The stabbing incident has exposed potential vulnerabilities in the system designed to manage police officers accused of wrongdoing, prompting a top-down evaluation of welfare and security measures for personnel in custody.
