12 HPG officers relieved over alleged gunpoint incident

Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) director Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan ordered over the weekend the administrative relief of 12 personnel, including Regional Highway Patrol Unit NCR chief Col. Joey Tomas Caise.

The action follows allegations posted on social media by broadcaster Ramon Tulfo, who claimed HPG personnel led by Lt. Col. Carlo Loñosa harassed, disarmed and held Bureau of Customs (BoC) agents at gunpoint in Bulacan as officers attempted to seize smuggled cigarettes from an incinerator facility.

According to Tulfo, Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno contacted senior police officials shortly after the late-night incident to report the encounter.

Batangan acknowledged the gravity of the claims and stated that immediate administrative action was taken to ensure an impartial investigation.

"We recognize the seriousness of the allegations and have taken steps immediately to ensure that the incident is properly investigated," Batangan said, adding that he noted official reports regarding the confrontation during the destruction of confiscated cigarettes.

Meanwhile, newly appointed National Capital Region Police Office officer-in-charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano assumed leadership Sunday, issuing directives for increased police visibility and faster emergency response across Metro Manila.