TACLOBAN CITY — The Dolores Municipal Police Station in Eastern Samar will conduct an internal investigation into the alleged drinking of alcoholic beverages within its premises during a Christmas party held Monday evening.

Photos of the event went viral on social media, prompting the Police Regional Office 8 and the Eastern Samar Provincial Police Office to look into the matter while reminding police units of the policy prohibiting the consumption of alcohol while on duty and inside police premises.

In a statement, the Dolores Municipal Police Station said the incident remains alleged and unverified.

“No findings or conclusions have been made, and no personnel have been deemed liable. The Station upholds the presumption of innocence and the right to due process of all concerned,” it said.

“The inquiry is being undertaken objectively and without prejudice, with due regard for the rights, welfare, and dignity of the personnel involved. Any outcome will be based strictly on verified facts and existing rules and regulations,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, P/Col. Ernesto R. Macasil, provincial director of the Eastern Samar Provincial Police Office, confirmed that the municipal police chief has been relieved from his post due to misconduct.

Macasil said the Philippine National Police has a clear policy strictly prohibiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages while on duty and within police premises, even during special occasions, as this affects police effectiveness in responding to incidents and damages the credibility of the PNP as an institution.