CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office has filed criminal charges against two police trainees accused of raping fellow trainees during an unauthorized team-building activity at a local beach last week.

The suspects, ages 27 and 28, face charges for violating Republic Act 8353, known as the Anti-Rape Law of 1997.

Misamis Oriental police director Col. Al Abenales said the suspects were arrested and subjected to inquest proceedings before the prosecutor’s office. They are currently detained at a Bureau of Jail Management and Penology provincial facility.

“Upon receipt of the information, appropriate police actions were immediately initiated,” Abenales said. “A thorough investigation was conducted, including the necessary investigative and medical procedures, in accordance with established protocols.”

Abenales clarified that the team-building event at the beach was not an authorized part of the new police escorts’ training curriculum. He assured the public that authorities are handling the case impartially and adhering to strict due process.

“We assure the public that the case will be handled fairly and in accordance with the law, while maintaining utmost confidentiality and protecting the rights and dignity of all parties concerned,” Abenales said.

He stressed that police officials will not shield anyone from accountability, regardless of status or affiliation and that administrative and legal actions will depend on the investigation’s final findings.

Abenales also urged the public to avoid speculation and refrain from sharing unverified information that could compromise the case or breach the privacy of those involved.