MANILA, Philippines — In a stern push for accountability, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos has recommended the administrative investigation of nine high-ranking executives of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA).
The recommendation follows a gruesome hazing incident involving the use of chemical acids that left over 20 underclassmen injured. The DILG chief’s move underscores a “command responsibility” approach, targeting not just the perpetrators but also the leadership tasked with supervising the cadets.
The investigation centers on a “punishment” ritual discovered on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, at the PNPA barracks in Silang, Cavite:
- The Victims: 22 plebes (underclassmen) were subjected to physical abuse where they were reportedly smeared with a mixture of muriatic acid and drain cleaner.
- The Injuries: The victims suffered chemical burns and skin lesions on various parts of their bodies. They are currently receiving both medical and psychological care.
- The Alleged Cause: Initial reports suggest the hazing was triggered after the plebes were blamed for an issue involving a cadet who was planning to resign.
The DILG and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) have formed a dedicated task force to probe the academy’s hierarchy.
- 9 Officials Targeted: The recommended probe includes nine executives and tactical officers who were supposedly on duty or responsible for the supervision of the barracks where the abuse took place.
- Neglect of Duty: Secretary Abalos emphasized that the leadership cannot claim ignorance. The investigation will determine if there was a “lapse in supervision” or “gross neglect of duty” that allowed such a violent culture to persist.
- Sacked Officers: As an immediate measure, the Tactical Officer of the Day has already been relieved of their post.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. joined the condemnation, vowing “aggressive reforms” within the institution.
- Cadets Arrested: Three upperclassmen have been arrested and are facing criminal charges under the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 (Republic Act No. 11053). They also face certain expulsion from the academy.
- Anonymous Reporting: To prevent future incidents, the PNP has ordered the implementation of a secure, anonymous digital reporting system where cadets can flag abuses without fear of retaliation.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers, with Senator Sherwin Gatchalian calling the continued culture of violence within a law enforcement institution “deeply alarming and unacceptable.”
As the Napolcom task force begins its work, the DILG has signaled that these nine executives could face suspension or permanent dismissal from service if found negligent in preventing the “barbaric” acts within their ranks.