The Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters has ordered the "immediate relief" of the Eastern Police District (EPD) Director and the entire District Special Operations Unit (DSOU) due to serious allegations of extortion and gross misconduct related to the arrest of two Chinese nationals in Las Piñas City.

In a statement on Saturday, PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil lamented the failure of leadership in enforcing law enforcement standards.

At least eight DSOU personnel were detained after being linked to alleged extortion and serious procedural irregularities in arresting the Chinese nationals.

The PNP said various criminal charges have been formally filed against the officers involved.

The headquarters also assured that all erring personnel would be held accountable, without exception.

“This is no longer just about rogue officers — it is a failure of leadership… When discipline collapses, it begins at the top. Leaders will be held to the highest standards of accountability,” Marbil pointed out.

He warned that police officers found guilty of violating law enforcement policies would not be given a second chance.

“It is unequivocally clear: there will be no second chances,” Marbil declared.

“Those involved must be summarily dismissed from the service and permanently disqualified from holding any position in government. If the director is found liable under the principle of command responsibility, he will never be trusted with any position of leadership again,” he added.

Marbil also reminded all police commanders nationwide that it is their command responsibility to instill discipline and integrity among their officers.

“Let this serve as a clear and final reminder. If you cannot uphold discipline and instill integrity within your ranks, then you have no place in this organization. Command responsibility is not a slogan — it is a mandate,” he said.

“Every officer, regardless of rank, is duty-bound to uphold the highest standards of public service,” he added.

Marbil also cautioned cops that badges should not be worn as a “shield for abuse.”

“It is a symbol of public trust. Betray that trust, and you will be removed, prosecuted, and punished to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.

Meanwhile, the PNP headquarters has directed the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) and the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) to conduct a full, thorough, and impartial investigation into the matter involving the EPD operations unit.

Administrative and criminal charges will be pursued against all involved.

Marbil also reaffirmed the PNP’s unwavering commitment to professionalizing its ranks through rigorous internal cleansing.

“We are cleaning our ranks — without fear, without favor. The Filipino people deserve nothing less than a police force they can trust,” he said.