MANILA – Ten senior officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) have been reassigned following a leadership reshuffle ordered by PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
In a memorandum dated January 10, which was made public on Saturday, Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan has been appointed as the new director of Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 in Central Visayas.
Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, the current PNP spokesperson and head of the Information Office, will replace Maranan as director of PRO 3 in Central Luzon.
Fajardo’s position will be filled by Col. Randolf Tuaño, who will serve as the acting PNP spokesperson and chief of the Information Office.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Roel Rodolfo has been assigned as the director of PRO 9 in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Rodolfo, who took charge of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group on January 8, will be succeeded by Col. Elmer Ragay.
Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta has been appointed as the officer-in-charge of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG), while Col. Rolando Cuya Jr. will take over as the new head of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG).
Additional appointments include:
Brig. Gen. Bowenn Joey Masauding as deputy director of the Directorate for Comptrollership
Brig. Gen. Wilson Asueta as deputy director of the Directorate for Information and Communications Technology
Brig. Gen. William Segun as deputy director of the PNP Area Police Command in Southern Luzon
In his directive, Gen. Marbil emphasized that the reshuffle is designed to strategically position officers to enhance the PNP’s operational effectiveness. He called on the newly appointed officials to uphold fairness, integrity, and professionalism in their duties.
elamigo/mnm
MANILA – On January 6, 2025, the Philippine National Police (PNP) led the Send-Off Ceremony for security forces tasked with ensuring the safety of the Nazareno 2025 procession. The event took place at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, ahead of the highly anticipated Traslacion, set for January 9, 2025.
The annual procession of the Poong Hesus Nazareno will begin at the Quirino Grandstand and make its way to Quiapo Church. It is expected to draw millions of devotees, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the country.
The send-off ceremony was attended by various agencies including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Philippine Coast Guard, Joint Task Force (JTF), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), local government units (LGUs), religious groups, and other key government bodies.
PNP Chief PGen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of unity and coordination among all agencies. He emphasized that security efforts must go beyond maintaining order, focusing on professionalism, respect, and service to the public. Marbil stressed that the collaboration of all forces will help ensure a safe, peaceful, and meaningful Nazareno 2025, allowing devotees to express their faith without fear.
With collective commitment and clear coordination, the event aims to be a success, offering a secure environment for the millions of participants.
elamigo/mnm
By Liezelle Soriano
Manila — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has arrested 31 individuals in connection with indiscriminate firing incidents that occurred during the New Year celebrations.
According to data from the Oplan Ligtas Paskuhan monitoring as of January 5, 31 arrests were made in relation to 37 recorded cases of indiscriminate firing across various locations nationwide.
Among those arrested, two are police officers, a soldier, member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), a Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) personnel, a security guard, and the rest were civilians.
Meanwhile, five (5) individuals were injured due to the illegal firing of guns, while 18 others were struck by stray bullets, one of whom was killed.
PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo provided details of the fatality, stating:
“Ang biktima po ay isang 19-anyos na lalaki. Habang siya ay nakatayo malapit sa kanilang gate at nanonood ng fireworks, bigla po siyang nagreklamo na parang may tama siya sa kanyang noo.”
Fajardo added that the victim was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) Spokesperson, Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, has urged the public to avoid using firecrackers in front of their houses to ensure safety during the New Year celebrations.
“Iwasan ang mga pagpapaputok doon sa harap ng kanilang mga bahay at salubungin natin ang Bagong Taon na ligtas po,” Fajardo said.
The PNP will deploy police officers, supported by additional force multipliers, to prevent individuals from lighting firecrackers, particularly in residential areas.
“Dadagdagan pa po natin ‘yan ng mga force multipliers to make sure na walang magpapaputok lalong lalo na ‘yung mga firecrackers doon sa mga residential areas para maiwasan ang insidente,” she added.
Fajardo also reminded parents to closely supervise their children and discourage them from using prohibited firecrackers. She emphasized that parents will be held liable if their children are caught using such items.
“Dapat talaga bantayan at i-supervise ng mga magulang ang kanilang mga anak,” she said.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is gearing up for Typhoon Marce and is coordinating with local government units (LGUs) that may be affected by the storm.
“As we speak, the PNP is continuously coordinating with local government units, particularly in areas expected to be hit by the typhoon,” PNP Spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo said.
She noted that PNP Chief Police General Rommel Franciso Marbil has instructed them to prepare and reach out to local governments in the typhoon’s path.
Fajardo stated that the PNP is ready to assist local governments with preemptive evacuations to minimize the impact of the storm.
“The PNP is prepared to provide the necessary police assistance for preemptive evacuations to ensure that the effects of the approaching typhoon are minimized,” Fajardo said.
Meanwhile, Fajardo urged the public, especially those living in low-lying areas and regions prone to landslides, to evacuate early.
This is to prevent a repeat of the tragic incidents in Batangas during Typhoon Kristine, where many lives were lost.
According to the weather state bureau Pagasa, Marce is likely to make landfall north of Luzon towards the weekend and may strengthen into a typhoon before approaching Northern and Central Luzon.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo announced Sunday (03 Nov 2024) that the celebration of Undas 2024 was “generally peaceful.”
“Naging mapayapa at maayos naman po sa pangkalahatan nationwide ang paggunita ng Undas ngayong taon dahil wala po tayong naitalang major incident na maaaring maka-disrupt sa paggunita,” Fajardo stated in a radio interview.
However, she noted that there were some minor incidents, including a fire at Bagbag Public Cemetery that damaged several tombs.
Fajardo mentioned that most police officers were deployed to transportation terminals, while others monitored major cemeteries on Sunday.
Additionally, the PNP official expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation during Undas.
According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), over 273,000 passengers arrived in ports nationwide on November 2.
ia/mnm
MANILA – Malacañang has voiced its backing for the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) plan to reopen investigations into high-profile killings tied to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial drug war.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin emphasized that the Marcos administration is committed to justice, stating, “The reopening of these cases demonstrates that the administration prioritizes the fair dispensation of justice and the universal observance of the rule of law.”
The PNP’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) is revisiting the case of Tanauan City Mayor Antonio Halili, following revelations from retired police colonel Royina Garma that police officers were involved in the 2018 killing.
Halili, known for his public shaming of criminals, was shot during a flag-raising ceremony at Tanauan City Hall.
On Tuesday, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo also confirmed that the CIDG would examine other significant killings linked to Duterte’s drug war.
The Department of Justice recently announced its own preliminary investigation into these high-profile cases, which include the deaths of Halili, retired police general Wesley Barayuga, Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa, and convicted drug lords Chu Kin Tung, Li Lan Yan, and Wong Meng Pin in 2016.
Garma testified that Duterte’s nationwide anti-drug operation, modeled after Davao City’s system, involved cash rewards for police officers based on the number of drug suspects killed.
PNP leadership, despite the disturbing nature of these revelations, pledged a thorough investigation into the links between the killings of Halili, Barayuga, and others.
“We will leave no stone unturned,” said Fajardo, addressing concerns over the involvement of police personnel.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has warned that anyone found harboring former presidential spokesman Harry Roque will face charges of obstruction of justice.
“If anyone is found to be shielding Roque, we will pursue charges of obstruction of justice if we can prove it,” said Lt. Col. Imelda Reyes, spokesperson for the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
Reyes also mentioned that the CIDG is following leads in their manhunt for Roque, who has been in hiding since being cited for contempt by the House of Representatives.
The House Quad Committee has cited Roque for contempt again and ordered his detention for failing to submit documents subpoenaed by the joint panel investigating his potential links to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Marbil announced that the PNP is currently investigating 24 former police chiefs in connection with the alleged escape of dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, which is suspected to involve financial transactions.
“We do not yet have a report from [retired] General Raul Villanueva regarding his statements, but we are investigating these 24 former PNP chiefs to determine their involvement,” Marbil said during the Senate hearing on the PNP’s proposed P205.8-billion budget for 2025.
“At this time, this is our focus. However, we need General Villanueva to provide specific names under oath,” he added in a separate interview.
Marbil also mentioned that he discussed the issue with Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr., who confirmed that all individuals involved in Guo’s escape would be investigated.
On Tuesday, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation Senior Vice President Raul Villanueva revealed details about the case.
When asked about the allegations against the former PNP chiefs, Abalos stated that Marbil should address the inquiries regarding this matter.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing to file charges against individuals who allegedly sheltered Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered a full investigation to identify and hold accountable those involved in harboring the Pastor.
“We will not tolerate any form of obstruction of justice,” Marbil stated.
“Our investigation aims to identify those who knowingly provided refuge to Quiboloy, and we will ensure they face appropriate legal consequences,” he added.
Marbil also claimed that Quiboloy could not have evaded authorities without the assistance of close associates, including his legal team, who allegedly misled police about his whereabouts.
“Obstruction of justice is a serious offense. Those who helped shield Quiboloy from law enforcement will be charged accordingly. The law is clear: no one is above it, and those who aided Quiboloy will be held accountable,” Marbil said.
Quiboloy has pleaded not guilty to charges of child abuse and human trafficking. His four co-accused have also entered not-guilty pleas.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson, Col. Jean Fajardo, stated on Monday, August 26, 2024, that they have video evidence showing members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) harming each other and falsely accusing the police of causing their injuries.
“We have a video that shows members injuring each other in an attempt to blame the police for their injuries. We are currently waiting for this video to be authenticated,” Fajardo said.
The PNP spokesperson added that some police officers were injured during their search for KOJC Pastor Apollo Quiboloy at the compound in Davao City.
“One of our officers sustained a head injury, another had a broken nose bridge, and many others have cuts and bruises on their hands and feet,” Fajardo reported.
Fajardo also clarified that the police did not use tear gas, contradicting claims made by KOJC members.
The PNP has given Quiboloy’s supporters until today to voluntarily disperse and remove the vehicles and barricades blocking the area.
Fajardo mentioned that they are considering filing a complaint against the protesters.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Sunday (August 4, 2024) that no indication that suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo has already left the country.
Guo has yet to appear at Senate hearings and her repeated absence elicited an outstanding warrant for her arrest from the Upper Chamber.
PNP Spokesperson Pcol. Jean Fajardo stated that the PNP continues to assist the Senate’s Sergeant-at-Arms in implementing the arrest warrant against Guo and her associates.
“We are consistently providing police assistance to the Senate’s Sergeant-at-Arms, who has been tasked with executing the arrest warrant against Mayor Guo and others,” Fajardo said in a radio interview.
Fajardo did not specify a timeline for Guo’s arrest but assured that the PNP is committed to locating the suspended mayor.
“The national police will not stop until Alice Guo is submitted to the Senate’s jurisdiction,” she said.
The PNP official also warned that individuals who know Guo’s whereabouts and deliberately withhold this information could face charges.
“If there is sufficient evidence and it can be proven that someone has harbored Mayor Guo, we can file appropriate charges,” Fajardo said.
“Anyone who attempts to hide her from the authorities will face serious legal consequences,” she added.
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MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to take down a viral video showing a man sniffing a powdery substance from a small cup.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo confirmed in a Thursday (25 July 2024) press briefing at Camp Crame that the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has already coordinated with the DICT regarding the video.
Fajardo urged netizens to refrain from spreading the video, which had been shown at a gathering linked to former President Rodrigo Duterte in the United States. “Based on initial investigations, it is not true that a high-profile personality is involved,” she said.
Justice Undersecretary Hermogenes Andres also stated that the video, which features a man resembling President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is fake and intended to misrepresent. He warned that those spreading the fake video could face cybercrime charges.
ACG Director Brig. Gen. Ronnie Cariaga revealed that a deepware artificial intelligence (AI) detection tool had determined the video was fake. Discrepancies in facial features, including the size of the ear, shape of the eyes and nose, and sideburns, indicated the man in the video was not Marcos. Spectral imaging analysis by the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) supported this finding.
NBI digital forensics experts concluded that the man in the altered video is definitively not President Marcos.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Despite the absence of threats, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is not taking any chances as around 22,000 police personnel will be deployed to secure the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
This developed as the Batasang Pambansa was locked down starting Friday (19 July 2024) as part of the security measures.
“Ang nakikita po natin last time po mga 22,000 na-deploy, ganun pa rin po. Unless we see may mga threats po, there will be more,” PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said.
“Right now, we don’t see any threats but ang sinasabi ko, go signal ko, of course, you have to see yung inconvenience (but what I am saying is we should look at possible inconveniences),” he stressed.
For her part, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo on Friday (19 July 2024) said they also suggested to the Quezon City government that they allow pro-administration rallies around the Commission on Audit (COA) building area.
The PNP has recommended allowing anti-government protesters only up to Commonwealth Avenue-Tandang Sora Avenue during the SONA on Monday, July 22.
“Ang nire-recommend po natin sa LGU particularly dyan sa Quezon City ay bandang Tandang Sora na lamang po sila para masiguro natin yung mga daan na malapit sa Batasan Complex ay hindi po magkakaroon ng mabigat na daloy ng trapiko,” Fajardo said.
She added: “Ang mga pro-government (groups) naman po ay doon po natin sila ilalagay doon sa bandang COA po para medyo malayo po ang pagitan nila para maiwasan po ang tensyon.”
According to Fajardo, police personnel will ensure protesters stay in their designated areas in case they attempt to get near Batasan Complex.
House Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” Velasco said the President earlier instructed to accommodate everyone who wants to attend the SONA.
“There are a lot of people who would like to attend this SONA this July 22nd. And he (Marcos Jr.) said to me, accommodate all of them,’” Velasco said.
He added that more than 2,000 individuals from the government, the private sector, and non-government organizations (NGOs) have signified their desire to attend the SONA.
With the seating capacity of the session hall limited to 2,000, Velasco said the House of Representatives will add seats and open several function rooms to accommodate additional guests.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police has been receiving calls about the whereabouts of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, according to spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo on Thursday, July 11, 2024.
“Kausap ko po kanina si General Torre at nakibalita po tayo sa kanya. According to him, may mga tumawag po sa hotlines at after natin i-announce ang reward, marami pong nagbigay ng information. Pero hindi naman natin tatanggapin agad-agad ito, baka meron doon ay nililigaw lang ang ating focus,” Fajardo said.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos previously stated that private citizens have pooled a P10 million reward for anyone who can provide information on Quiboloy’s whereabouts or lead to his arrest.
“They are so frustrated about what’s happening right now and want to help, so they offered a P10 million reward,” Abalos said.
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. earlier challenged the pastor to show up and face the charges against him.
Quiboloy is facing charges of sexual abuse and human trafficking.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced that they are now in the “final stage” of security preparations for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA), set to take place at the House of Representatives on July 22.
During a press briefing at Camp Crame on Tuesday afternoon, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo emphasized that their main focus is on securing the areas surrounding the Batasang Pambansa Complex. Security inside the chamber is managed by the House Office of the Sergeant at Arms and the Presidential Security Group.
“We have not monitored any serious security threats, especially for the President’s SONA,” Fajardo stated.
She mentioned that the PNP is in constant coordination with other law enforcement agencies to assess any potential threats to the Marcos administration.
To ensure safety, at least 22,000 police officers will be deployed, with 6,000 stationed near the Batasang Pambansa Complex where President Marcos will deliver his third SONA.
“We are implementing some traffic rerouting, especially in areas where VIPs will pass through, and in anticipation of unpermitted mass actions. We are looking at various scenarios, hence, we are setting up a comprehensive security plan along Commonwealth Avenue and the roads leading to the Batasan Complex,” Fajardo explained.
The SONA, delivered annually on the last Monday of July, is an opportunity for the President to report on the state of the country, present the administration’s agenda, and request Congress to pass priority measures.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has assessed no security threats ahead of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22.
“Right now, we don’t see any threats, but of course, we have to consider potential inconveniences,” said PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
He emphasized that maximum tolerance will be maintained towards groups participating in SONA protests.
“I only advise that you can proceed with your protest, but ensure that it does not cause inconvenience,” added the PNP chief.
Over 22,000 personnel will be deployed at various convergence points, with the majority stationed around the Batasang Pambansa.
“Last time, we deployed around 22,000 personnel, and we anticipate a similar number unless we identify specific threats,” Marbil stated.
Earlier, Marcos instructed the House of Representatives to accommodate all attendees interested in his SONA.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil has issued a stern warning to police officers against protecting illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
He emphasized that officers involved in such activities will face disciplinary actions.
In a statement on Sunday, June 23, 2024, Marbil stated, “Integrity and accountability are the cornerstones of our public service. We remain committed to ensuring that our officers uphold these values.”
“This policy serves as a reminder: engage in illegal activities, and you will be dealt with accordingly,” the PNP chief added.
Marbil’s statement comes in the wake of the discovery of illegal POGOs in Porac, Pampanga, and Bamban, Tarlac.
According to the PNP, coordinated efforts led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) have successfully dismantled multiple illegal POGO operations across the country.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — In coordination with other government agencies, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy over 11,000 personnel to ensure security on Independence Day.
Chief Police Colonel Jean Fajardo, head of the PNP Public Information Office, announced that the Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine Coast Guard are collaborating with the PNP to provide security for the June 12 celebrations.
Fajardo noted that security measures are not limited to Metro Manila but extend to various parts of the country.
On June 12, a program will be held at Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, to celebrate Independence Day.
Fajardo also mentioned that the number of deployed personnel may be adjusted based on discussions in upcoming meetings.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) Women and Children Protection Center has arrested two individuals for allegedly selling an eight-day-old baby for P90,000 on Facebook’s marketplace.
Both suspects were arrested during an entrapment operation in Dasmariñas City, according to PCol. Renato Mercado of the PNP Women and Children Protection Center. One of the suspects was the baby’s mother.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian stated that the PNP and DSWD do not tolerate such acts.
“We will not tolerate such acts of cruelty. We will use the fullest extent of the law to apprehend and prosecute those caught,” he said during a press conference on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Gatchalian emphasized that there are legal ways to have a child adopted, referring to the National Authority for Child Care.
“You do not need to go to marketplaces like Facebook to sell your child because the NACC law was precisely made to streamline the adoption process for those seeking to adopt,” the Secretary said.
Meanwhile, Mercado noted that they have identified 23 Facebook pages involved in selling babies.
(el Amigo/MNM)