Major Police Shakeup in Basilan as 70 Officers Relieved Over Hazing Allegations
In a significant development highlighting internal disciplinary issues within the Philippine National Police (PNP), approximately 70 members of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-14B (RMFB-14B) stationed in Lamitan City, Basilan have been ordered relieved from their posts. This decisive action comes in response to alarming reports and viral video evidence depicting the alleged maltreatment and hazing of fellow police officers, specifically targeting newly assigned personnel.
Charges Filed Against Twelve Personnel Including Senior Officer
During a press conference, Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño, chief of the PNP Public Information Office (PIO), confirmed that twelve policemen have been formally charged for violating the Republic Act 11053, also known as the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018. The accused individuals include a police colonel, a police major, five police corporals, and five patrolmen. According to General Tuaño, these twelve personnel are currently under the restrictive custody of the Bangsamoro Regional Police Office (PRO-BAR).
The investigation stems from a hazing incident that occurred on February 6, 2026, involving over 120 newly assigned policemen in Lamitan City. General Tuaño elaborated that an additional ten policemen are also under restrictive custody as the probe into their participation continues. Furthermore, fifty-five more members of the RMFB-14B are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the same incident, though they have not been placed in restrictive custody at this time.
Command Responsibility and Physical Presence Cited
Providing critical details, General Tuaño emphasized that the police colonel among those charged served as the force commander and was physically present during the occurrences of maltreatment. "Ayon po sa ating imbestigasyon na natanggap natin sa PRO-BAR, ito po ay di lang dahil sa EO 262 o command responsibility. Ito daw po ay nakitang pisikal na presence habang nangyayare ang mga insidente," he stated. This translates to the investigation indicating the commander's liability was not solely based on executive order or command responsibility, but on his observed physical presence while the hazing incidents were transpiring.
PNP Reiterates Zero Tolerance Policy on Hazing
In a separate statement, PNP officials, including references to statements likely from PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil or similar authority, strongly reiterated the organization's unwavering zero tolerance policy against hazing. The PNP emphasized that any personnel found to have participated in, organized, or facilitated hazing activities will face severe administrative sanctions, which can include dismissal from the service. Additionally, they may be held criminally liable under the full extent of the law.
The directive mandates all PNP units to ensure strict compliance with anti-hazing policies, conduct proper monitoring during training and initiation periods, and immediately report and address any suspected violations. This reflects the PNP's fundamental duty to safeguard its personnel and enforce the rule of law. "These measures reflect the PNP’s commitment to uphold discipline, professionalism, and respect for human dignity within its ranks," the statement affirmed. It concluded with a stern warning: "Hazing has no place in the organization, and violators will be held accountable without exception."
This case underscores ongoing challenges within police institutions regarding initiation rites and the enforcement of internal discipline, particularly in regional units. The swift administrative action and criminal charges signal a firm response from PNP leadership to address such misconduct and restore public trust in law enforcement protocols.
