PNP Leadership Shuffle Follows PNPA Hazing Incident
In a significant reshuffle within the Philippine National Police, Police Brigadier General Arnold Evangelista Abad officially took command of the Police Regional Office 7 in Cebu on Thursday, April 16, 2026. The change of command ceremony marked a pivotal moment as Abad, previously from the National Capital Region Police Office, succeeded Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan.
Maranan Appointed as New PNPA Director
Brigadier General Red Maranan has been appointed as the new director of the Philippine National Police Academy, replacing Major General Andre Dizon. Dizon was reassigned to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit, a move that is part of broader personnel changes following a disturbing hazing incident at the academy.
Widespread Reassignments Triggered by Hazing Scandal
The leadership changes extend beyond the top positions. Several other officials have been reassigned to the PHAU, including Police Brigadier General Gonzalo Villamor Jr., Colonels Roman dela Cruz Jr. and Julio Gorospe Jr., Majors Mark Anthony Cailing and Anthony de Asis, Chief Master Sergeant Geronimo Reyna, and Staff Master Sergeants Thomas Diaz and Silverio Dolorfino.
These reassignments are directly linked to a recent hazing incident that involved over 30 PNP cadets, with 22 fourth-class cadets identified as victims. The cadets suffered burns and injuries after being subjected to a mixture of drain cleaner and muriatic acid as punishment related to a classmate's resignation.
Internal Investigation Focuses on Command Responsibility
Internal Affairs Service inspector general Atty. Brigido Dulay revealed on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that an investigation is underway to determine the lapses and accountability of the relieved PNPA officials. "That will now be our basis in determining findings on his command responsibility," Dulay stated during an interview with reporters.
Dulay emphasized that the delayed reporting of the incident to higher authorities is a critical focus. "Why did it take so long? Why were there no documents submitted? Even if the PNPA personnel are removed, they are not exempt from investigation by the IAS, because the offense is considered continuing," he explained, noting that the investigation continues with coordination from the Directorate for Investigative and Detective Management and the Napolcom.
Nationwide Anti-Hazing Crackdown Announced
In response to the incident, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a nationwide expansion of anti-hazing measures. "We are institutionalizing these reforms. This will be a zero-tolerance standard for all training centers nationwide, from recruitment to specialized courses," Nartatez declared in a statement.
The reforms will no longer be limited to the PNPA but will apply to every stage of police training across the country. Nartatez outlined plans for uniform implementation and monitoring, including random inspections and stricter accountability for training directors. "Consistency is key. We are strengthening our internal monitoring. In the PNP, brotherhood should never be an excuse for violence," he asserted.
Nartatez further emphasized a redefinition of discipline within the force, stating, "The true police officer is disciplined and respects human rights. Hazing has no place in a professional police force. We will weed out those who refuse to follow these reforms."
Additional Personnel Movement
In related developments, Police Colonel Frederick Obar from the Directorate of Plans has also been reassigned to the PNPA, as part of the ongoing adjustments within the police organization.
