PNP files raps vs cop in viral gun-pointing video

FROM hard hat to handcuffs
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. on Friday ordered the immediate filing of criminal and administrative cases against a police corporal caught on video allegedly pointing a firearm at a civilian in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte.
Nartatez condemned the actions of the officer, who is assigned to the Sapang Dalaga Municipal Police Station in Misamis Occidental.
"The actions displayed in the viral video are a complete betrayal of the badge and the trust our citizens place in us. We hold our officers to the highest standards of professional conduct," Nartatez said.
"There is no room in the PNP for anyone who uses their position to intimidate or threaten the very public we are sworn to protect. I have zero tolerance for such display of arrogance," he added.
The incident reportedly occurred at around 8:30 p.m. on 21 June at a neighborhood store in Barangay Antipolo, Dapitan City.
CCTV footage that later circulated on social media allegedly showed the police corporal pointing a firearm at a civilian during an argument.
Following the incident, the Misamis Occidental Police Provincial Office relieved the officer from his post, placed him under restrictive custody, and confiscated his service firearm pending the outcome of the investigation.
Police also endorsed a criminal complaint against the officer to the Dapitan City Prosecutor's Office.
"I have directed the concerned units to expedite all administrative and criminal proceedings with the highest sense of urgency," Nartatez said.
The National Police Commission has also ordered a motu proprio investigation into the incident.
Authorities disclosed that the police corporal is already facing administrative and criminal cases, including proceedings involving alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act. He also has a pending criminal case before the Family Court in Dapitan City.
"We are not just looking at a suspension. We are pursuing the full measure of administrative accountability," Nartatez said.
The PNP chief also directed a review of existing personnel management policies and recommended stricter measures for police officers facing violence-related cases.
"We will let the law take its course. But make no mistake, the PNP will not shield those who violate it," he said.
