MPD: Viral ‘gun-drawing’ cop under restrictive custody

The Manila Police District (MPD) on Friday disclosed that the police officer who was seen drawing a gun during a road rage incident on Election Day, captured in a widely circulated video, has been placed under restrictive custody.

“He is in restrictive custody,” MPD spokesperson Police Major Philipp Ines confirmed during a press briefing when asked about the status of the officer involved.

The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Election Day along F. Manalo Street in Barangay 897 Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila.

According to Ines, the officer was assigned to a polling center as part of covert security operations for the May 2025 midterm elections.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) stated that the officer has been reassigned to the District Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (DPHAS) of the MPD. His issued firearms have been surrendered while administrative proceedings are underway.

Administrative complaints for grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer have been filed against him.

“The PNP takes this matter seriously. While our personnel face real risks in the line of duty, there is no excuse for behavior that undermines public trust,” PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said in a statement.

“We have already initiated administrative action against the police officer involved, and we will see this through with full transparency and fairness,” he added.

Marbil had earlier ordered the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG) to investigate the incident, which involved the officer allegedly pointing his gun at a motorcycle rider during a traffic altercation on Monday.

Initial findings revealed that the officer, while assigned to election security, was involved in a traffic confrontation that escalated and led to him drawing his firearm. Responding officers from a nearby Police Assistance Desk intervened, and both parties were taken to the barangay for a potential settlement.

Marbil also reminded all motorists to exercise patience, discipline, and composure on the road, especially during traffic incidents.

“The Filipino people deserve a police force that is professional, disciplined, and committed to protecting their rights at all times,” Marbil said.