Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered the immediate relief of Eastern Police District (EPD) Director Brigadier Gen. Villamor Tuliao and the entire District Special Operations Unit (DSOU) following serious allegations of extortion and grave misconduct.
The controversy stemmed from the arrest of two Chinese nationals in Las Piñas City, where eight DSOU personnel are now in restrictive custody for alleged violations of due process and involvement in extortion activities.
Criminal cases have already been filed, with Marbil emphasizing the PNP’s firm stance on accountability at all levels.
“This is no longer just about errant officers—this is a failure of leadership,” Marbil said. “When discipline breaks down, it starts at the top. Leaders must be held to the highest standards of accountability.”
Marbil assured that there will be no second chances for those involved. “Those involved in this should be immediately removed from service and permanently disqualified from any government position,” he said.
“If the director is found to be responsible under the principle of command responsibility, he will no longer be trusted with any leadership position,” the PNP chief added.
Marbil issued a clear warning to police commanders across the country, reminding them that leadership carries real consequences.
“This is a clear and final reminder. If you cannot maintain discipline and instill integrity in your ranks, you have no place in this organization. Command responsibility is not a slogan—it is a mandate,” he emphasized.
“The badge you wear is not a protection against abuse—it is a symbol of public trust. If you betray this trust, you will be dismissed, imprisoned, and punished to the full extent of the law,” he warned.
Marbil has directed the PNP Internal Affairs Service (IAS) and the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) to conduct a full investigation. Both administrative and criminal charges will be pursued.
“We are cleansing our ranks—without fear, without favor. Filipinos deserve a police force they can trust,” he said.