PRO-6: Hazing has no place in PNP

ILOILO City – Hazing will never be tolerated in the Philippine National Police (PNP) organization, according to the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6).

A neophyte police patrolman claimed five policemen subjected him to hazing and they invoked “tradition” for such kind of reception for new cops.

The five policemen were assigned at the 2nd Aklan Provincial Mobile Company (APMC) in Buruanga, Aklan. Complainant Patrolman Rommel Magsusi identified them as Patrolman Ritchel Tolentino, Police Corporal Richie Lustica, Patrolman Christian Solanoy, Police Corporal Roque Lurca, and Patrolman Ruel Cuales.

Police Lieutenant Joem Malong, PRO-6 spokesperson, said the regional police command does not tolerate “traditions” that maim policemen.

Republic Act No. 8049 (An Act Regulating Hazing and Other Forms of Initiation Rites in Fraternities, Sororities, and Other Organizations) defines hazing as an initiation rite or practice as a prerequisite for admission into membership by placing the applicant or neophyte in embarrassing situations such as subjecting him to physical or psychological suffering or injury.

If found guilty, the five policemen – who were transferred to the 1st APMC in Libacao, Aklan – may be dismissed from the service, said Malong.

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) in Western Visayas has started investigating Magsusi’s complaint.

Director Joseph Celis said the five policeman personally appeared last week at the Napolcom regional office.

“We welcome his complaint… (This) shows the policeman’s trust and confidence in the Napolcom,” Celis said./PN