PNP CONDUCTS FULL-SCALE PROBE INTO PNPA HAZING

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a full-scale and uncompromising investigation into the reported hazing incident involving cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) following the directive of PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr..

Nartatez directed Lt. Gen. Bernard M. Banac, Deputy Chief for Administration (TDCA), together with the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) as the Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR), in coordination with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the PNP Health Service, to ensure a thorough, impartial, and evidence-based investigation.

The case stemmed from a follow-up operation by the CIDG Cavite Provincial Field Unit after reports of alleged maltreatment inside the PNPA. The operation led to the arrest of involved cadets and the recovery of items now submitted for forensic examination.

As an immediate directive, all cadet activities at the PNPA were suspended effective immediately to give way to the ongoing investigation, ensure preservation of evidence, and safeguard the welfare of cadets.

Initial findings revealed that 22 Fourth Class cadets sustained injuries allegedly inflicted by three Third Class cadets in an incident that occurred on April 3, 2026 at the PNPA. The victims were immediately given medical attention.

Medico-legal findings indicate that the injuries sustained have an estimated healing period of approximately 14 days. Further body checks conducted by the PNP Health Service also revealed additional cadets with minor injuries, which are being validated as part of the expanded investigation.

The three identified suspects are now under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and have undergone inquest proceedings for violation of Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.

Ongoing investigation has likewise unearthed possible prior hazing incidents, which are now being consolidated to ensure full accountability of all responsible individuals.

Nartatez has ordered the strict enforcement of command responsibility, directing that lapses in leadership, supervision or reporting be addressed through appropriate administrative actions.

The PNP also emphasized that PNPA submits regular weekly reports to the Chief PNP on cadet discipline and welfare, including hazing-related concerns, and that corresponding reminders have consistently been issued to leadership.

A comprehensive review of PNPA policies, systems, and training protocols is now underway to strengthen safeguards and prevent recurrence of similar incidents.

Following compliance with initial directives, PNPA activities are set to resume on April 11, 2026, subject to strict monitoring and additional control measures.

“Walang puwang ang hazing sa PNP. Walang pagtatakip. Walang palusot. Pananagutin ang lahat ng sangkot,” Nartatez said.

He added: “Those found responsible will face full legal accountability, administrative sanctions, and the loss of the privilege to serve in the institution.”

The PNP assures the public that there will be no cover-up, no leniency, and no exceptions. All those found responsible will face the full force of the law, administrative sanctions, and possible dismissal from the service.

The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring full accountability within its ranks.