The National Police Commission (Napolcom) announced Monday that it has initiated an immediate and full-scale investigation into an alleged robbery and rape incident in Bacoor, Cavite, involving 14 members of the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group–Special Operations Unit (PDEG-SOU) 4A.
Eight of the officers have been arrested, while six remain at large.
Napolcom chief Commissioner Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan confirmed that a four-man investigative team was deployed to Bacoor City to independently assess the circumstances and establish administrative liability.
The commission is coordinating with police units to secure evidence, documents, and statements to expedite the fact-finding process.
“We moved without delay,” Calinisan said. “Even before the full details were released publicly, Napolcom already deployed investigators to ensure that an impartial and thorough probe is conducted. We will not allow even a single day of inaction when the integrity of the police service is at stake.”
Calinisan also condemned the alleged acts as “reprehensible, unacceptable, and a betrayal of public trust,” stressing Napolcom’s role in guaranteeing accountability and upholding police standards.
“We will never allow the police to be involved in drug-planting, theft, and especially in sexual assault,” Calinisan said. “Those who are liable will be held accountable. Napolcom will ensure that the involved individuals will not escape this. Their actions are despicable, and we will make sure those who deserve punishment will be hit.”
Initial reports received by the commission indicate that the alleged operation conducted by the officers had no coordination, no documented authorization, and no record of any legitimate police activity at the time — factors that raise serious administrative and operational concerns.
Napolcom is preparing to file administrative charges, including grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, which carry severe penalties, including dismissal from the service.
The victim is scheduled to file a personal complaint at the Napolcom office Tuesday to formally move the administrative proceedings forward.
Napolcom also commended the swift action of the Bacoor City Police and other units whose coordinated follow-up operation led to the arrest of the eight officers and the recovery of stolen items.
“The public deserves a police force they can trust,” Calinisan said. “And we will not allow the actions of a few to tarnish the dedication of the many good, honest and hardworking police officers.”
Separately, Acting Philippine National Police Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reiterated the organization’s firm commitment to discipline and integrity following the arrests.
Nartatez stressed in a statement that the PNP would not tolerate any form of abuse or misconduct.
“The uniform represents Service, Honor, and Justice, and it is a privilege that comes with great responsibility,” Nartatez said. “Those who deviate from these standards will face swift and appropriate consequences under the law.”
Initial reports state that the officers were arrested after the victim, a Grade 9 student, sought police assistance and identified the suspects, claiming she had been assaulted and robbed. Authorities continue their manhunt for the six other suspects who remain at large.
Nartatez reminded unit commanders to strengthen supervision and mentorship to prevent abuses, stating, “Supervise your personnel closely, provide guidance and mentorship, correct misconduct, and ensure that discipline and integrity are upheld in every unit.”