By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Philippine National Police has temporarily relieved a police officer assigned to the Quezon City Police District while authorities investigate his response to a confrontation involving a motorcycle rider during the recent Iglesia ni Cristo rally in Quezon City.
PNP Public Information Office chief Allen Rae Co confirmed on Friday that the patrolman has been transferred to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (PHAS), where officers remain available while administrative investigations are being conducted.
Co clarified that the reassignment is a standard administrative measure and should not be interpreted as a finding of liability. He explained that placing the officer under PHAS allows investigators to easily access him as the inquiry proceeds.
The investigation stems from a video that circulated widely on social media showing a motorcycle rider confronting rally participants. The rider alleged that some demonstrators confiscated his motorcycle keys, shouted at him, and threatened him while the responding police officer allegedly failed to immediately protect him or stop the confrontation.
The PNP said investigators have been instructed to gather statements from all individuals involved, including the police officer, the rider, and other witnesses, before determining whether any administrative or disciplinary action is warranted.
Earlier, Raffy Tulfo publicly criticized the officer’s handling of the incident and suggested that he undergo additional police training.
While acknowledging the senator’s concerns, Co maintained that the PNP would wait for the results of the investigation before concluding. Initial observations, he said, indicate that the officer appeared to be attempting to de-escalate tensions, but investigators will still determine whether his actions were appropriate under the circumstances.
The confrontation occurred during the Iglesia ni Cristo-led protest that initially gathered near the People Power Monument on Tuesday. The demonstration caused significant traffic congestion along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue and White Plains Avenue before participants later transferred their activities to Liwasang Bonifacio, where the rally concluded on Thursday.
The PNP said its investigation remains ongoing and assured the public that appropriate action will be taken once all evidence has been reviewed.
ia/xf
