Police Brigadier General Lou Frias Evangelista confirmed Wednesday that the three police officers allegedly involved in the beating of a complainant in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte have been placed under restrictive custody.

This measure, he said in an exclusive interview, ensures their availability for any legal proceedings or internal investigations related to the incident.

Evangelista stated that if the officers are found guilty, they could face administrative and criminal charges. He added that a suspension would result in the loss of certain benefits, including salaries, bonuses and allowances.

Off-camera, Evangelista explained that a suspended police officer does not receive a salary or benefits during the suspension period. He added that if dismissed, all service-related privileges, including pension and retirement benefits, may also be forfeited.

He further reassured the public that the Philippine National Police is taking the incident seriously and implementing measures to prevent similar cases in the region.

“We want to assure the people that this will not happen again in Ilocos Norte or anywhere in the region. We are committed to upholding the integrity and discipline of our police force,” Evangelista emphasized.