THE entire Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 14-B assigned in Basilan has been relieved over complaints of physical harm on recruits allegedly as part of the welcome rites. Photos and videos of the incident were posted and went viral on social media.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said zero tolerance on hazing must be observed at all times in compliance with the existing law and rules and regulations that ban and punish all forms of hazing activities in the country.
Nartatez warned all police personnel against engaging in any initiation rites and other hazing-like activities that put the lives of police trainees and new recruits at risk.
“The Philippine National Police has its own share of sad and unpleasant stories of hazing activities. We must all learn from those lessons as our own contribution to uphold the dignity and professionalism of our organization,” said Nartatez. He said investigation is now being conducted against all those involved in the hazing incident. Vince Lopez
