The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday it will allow an independent investigation into allegations that suspects were tortured while in custody in connection with the killing of a Bulacan police officer.

PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police organization is prepared to face inquiries from oversight bodies, including the Commission on Human Rights, and will provide case records and documentation if requested.

The statement comes after detainees in the murder case of Renato Casauay Jr., a Police Staff Sergeant, alleged they were abused during arrest and detention.

Casauay was killed on 24 January 2026 in Malolos City, Bulacan. His body was recovered about a week later from a septic tank, according to investigators.

Police identified Julian Salamat, described by authorities as the officer’s intelligence asset, as the suspected gunman.

Three suspects, including a man identified only as Oliver, were arrested on the same day Casauay’s remains were found. Salamat was later arrested in Davao del Norte, while two other suspects surrendered to authorities. Four additional suspects remain at large.

Nartatez said standard arrest and detention procedures were followed but did not provide further details about the allegations.

“The Philippine National Police strictly follows established procedures, especially our existing policy that ensures the rights of any accused in a crime are protected,” he noted.

He added the PNP would cooperate with any formal probe into the conduct of its personnel, saying: “We welcome any effort to question the procedure and we are open to any investigation in the spirit of truth and transparency.”

The Commission on Human Rights has the authority to conduct independent investigations into possible abuses by state agents.