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.
ia/mnm
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)
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) stated on Tuesday (30 April 2024) that it perceives no security risks stemming from the assimilation of former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) into its ranks.
Colonel Jean Fajardo, spokesperson for the PNP, emphasized that the incorporation of 100 former Moro guerrillas, who completed a rigorous six-month field training course to join the PNP, symbolizes their transformed lives and offers them an opportunity to serve their homeland—the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“We are optimistic that their embrace of this life change will serve as an example for their former comrades still engaged in conflict with the government,” Fajardo remarked during a press briefing held at Camp Crame, Quezon City.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. presided over the graduation ceremony of the Bangsamoro Police Basic Recruit Course Batch 2023-01 Classes Alpha-Bravo ‘BAKAS-LIPI’ on Monday at Camp Pendatun, Parang town, Maguindanao del Norte. Fajardo underscored the significance of this event, noting that it marks the commencement of reforms, particularly in conflict-prone areas of Mindanao. She highlighted President Marcos Jr.’s acknowledgment in his speech that the integration of former rebels signifies a step towards lasting peace and order in the BARMM.
The first batch of MILF and MNLF applicants, comprising 92 men and eight women, will serve as observers in police stations, where they will be exposed to actual duties and functions such as patrol, traffic management, and investigation as part of the Field Training Program. These new graduates will receive temporary appointments as patrolmen and patrolwomen by the decree of the National Police Commission.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has identified potential origins of the deepfake technology used against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., according to its spokesperson, Col. Jean Fajardo.
“Initially, sir, we have identified a possible source of this deepfake audio, but the extent of their involvement remains the subject of our investigation,” Fajardo stated during a news forum.
She mentioned that the deepfake audio has already been removed by the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG). Both parties are now under a joint investigation by the PNP and the DICT, with the latter leading the probe.
Fajardo explained that the PNP’s role in the investigation focuses on the technical aspects to determine the potential location or origin of the deepfake audio.
“Whether intentional or not, those responsible for this deepfake audio will be held accountable,” Fajardo affirmed.
Earlier, the Department of Justice (DOJ) instructed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to identify and take legal action against those responsible for the deepfake audio.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson, Col. Jean Fajardo, emphasized on Wednesday (April 24, 2024) that the PNP does not discriminate against officers who have tattoos, viewing them as a form of self-expression.
Fajardo clarified that tattoos not visible while officers are in uniform are not subject to removal.
“Even when I entered the PNP academy, it was strictly prohibited to have tattoos. However, there is no policy once you are already in service… The PNP saw fit to issue a circular to regulate this,” Fajardo stated during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay.
“But again, we want to emphasize that we do not discriminate against those with tattoos, and we understand that getting a tattoo is a form of self-expression, which we allow,” she added.
“There are certain norms and a code of conduct that the PNP must adhere to. Once this becomes effective, those with tattoos that are not visible while they are in uniform do not need to have them removed.”
The PNP spokesperson mentioned that once Memorandum Circular 2024-023 takes effect, police officers cannot add additional tattoos to their bodies.
Meanwhile, Fajardo noted that tattoos deemed “indecent, discriminatory, and extremist,” even if not visible, must be removed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed to be impartial in implementing the law that prohibits the government officials from using sirens, blinkers and other similar signaling or flashing devices.
“Wala po tayong sisinuhin sa pag-implement at pag-enforce po ng PD (Presidential Decree) 96 regardless kung ano po ang estado nila sa buhay,” PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said.
Fajardo said that prior to the Administrative Order No. 18, the PNP has been enforcing the PD 96.
“We will be more strict in the enforcement po nitong Presidential Decree 96,” Fajardo said.
“But like I said, even prior to the issuance po ng Executive Order 18, the Highway Patrol Group has been enforcing the provision ng PD 96,” she added.
PD 96 states that “it shall be unlawful for the owner or possessor of any motor vehicle to use or attach to his vehicle any siren, bell, horn, whistle, or other similar gadgets that produce exceptionally loud or startling sound, including dome lights, blinkers and other similar signaling or flashing devices.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy some 34,000 police officers in crowded locations to ensure public safety during the observance of Holy Week and summer vacation.
On Sunday (17 March 2024), PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said in her interview on Super Radyo dzBB that the national police will maintain a presence at places of worship, tourist destinations, and major thoroughfares, including bus terminals, airports, and seaports.
She underscored that police assistance desks will also be placed in these areas.
“Ang ating Oplan SUMVAC (summer vacation), traditionally nagsa-start ng April 1 hanggang May 31, but since ang ating Semana Santa ay outside of the summer vacation ay nag-advance deployment tayo. Ito pa lamang Palm Sunday ay magde-deploy na tayo ng ating mga kapulisan diyan sa ating mga simbahan,” Fajardo quipped.
She also said the PNP is already on heightened alert a week before the Holy Week.
“As a matter of practice, kapag ganitong mga Holy Week observance ay naka-heightened alert na tayo pero ang mga regional director are given the discretion kung sa mga area nila ay kailangan pang itaas ang full alert level. They have the authority and discretion to do so,” Fajardo explained.
It was gathered that the Holy Week this year will begin on March 24, on Palm Sunday, and will last until March 30, revered as Black Saturday.
This will be succeeded by Easter Sunday when the Catholic faithful celebrate Jesus’ resurrection.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday (01 Mar 2024) issued a cautionary advisory to the public regarding scams associated with inexpensive vacation offers found online.
This warning comes following alerts from the PNP-Anti Cybercrime Group indicating a potential rise in cases of vacation or tour scams this summer.
“We would like to take this opportunity to warn and remind the public to be vigilant. Especially when the immediate requirement is to send money without knowing who the recipients are,” stated PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo.
“To travel agencies, there are ways to verify the authenticity of authorized travel agencies that genuinely have the authority to offer promotions for vacation and travel packages,” she added.
According to PNP data, there were 39 vacation scam cases recorded in 2021, 91 cases in 2022, and 313 in 2023.
Meanwhile, there have already been 35 vacation scam cases reported this year.
“Vacation scams are ICT-enabled crimes wherein criminals impersonate legitimate establishments, offering online accommodation services at prices lower than usual. However, upon arrival, victims discover that their reservations do not exist in the establishment’s system, revealing the scam,” stated the ACG.
(el Amigo/MNM)