PNP Kabugao Municipal Police Station

20/07/2026

PNP JOINS MULTI-AGENCY DESTRUCTION OF ₱14.5-M WORTH OF ILLEGAL CI******ES IN BATANGAS

The Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), joined partner government agencies in the destruction of more than ₱14.5 million worth of confiscated illegal ci******es, ensuring the contraband can no longer re-enter the market and reinforcing the government's campaign against illicit trade.

The destruction was carried out on July 16, 2026 at a licensed recycling and disposal facility in Lipa City, Batangas, where 233 master cases of illegal ci******es, valued at ₱14,507,127.00, were subjected to a supervised destruction process. The contraband had been seized in previous law enforcement operations conducted in Bulacan, Laguna, and Batangas.

The activity was witnessed by representatives from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Department of Justice through the Offices of the Provincial Prosecutors, local government units, PNP oversight and intelligence units, and members of the media to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal procedures.

Authorities said the confiscated products underwent a controlled destruction process to ensure they could no longer be redistributed or re-enter commercial circulation. Beyond protecting consumers from unregulated products, the lawful disposal of seized evidence also helps maintain proper evidence management and strengthens the integrity of law enforcement operations.

The operation reflects the PNP's sustained campaign against economic sabotage and other illicit trade activities, consistent with the PNP Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations. It also supports the direction of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen law enforcement efforts that protect legitimate businesses, government revenues, and the welfare of the public.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., emphasized that law enforcement does not end with the seizure of illegal goods.

"Hindi nagtatapos ang trabaho natin sa pagkumpiska. Mahalaga ring masigurong ang mga ilegal na produkto ay tuluyan nang mawawala sa sirkulasyon. This is part of our responsibility to protect the public and uphold the rule of law."

He also commended the close coordination among partner agencies that made the destruction activity transparent and credible.

"Kapag magkakasama ang law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, LGUs, at iba pang partners, mas tumitibay ang tiwala ng publiko. We will continue to enforce our laws fairly and consistently while ensuring that seized contraband is properly accounted for and permanently disposed of."

The PNP reaffirmed that it will continue working with concerned government agencies in curbing the proliferation of illicit goods and strengthening enforcement efforts nationwide, in keeping with its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP JOINS MULTI-AGENCY DESTRUCTION OF ₱14.5-M WORTH OF ILLEGAL CI******ES IN BATANGAS

The Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), joined partner government agencies in the destruction of more than ₱14.5 million worth of confiscated illegal ci******es, ensuring the contraband can no longer re-enter the market and reinforcing the government's campaign against illicit trade.

The destruction was carried out on July 16, 2026 at a licensed recycling and disposal facility in Lipa City, Batangas, where 233 master cases of illegal ci******es, valued at ₱14,507,127.00, were subjected to a supervised destruction process. The contraband had been seized in previous law enforcement operations conducted in Bulacan, Laguna, and Batangas.

The activity was witnessed by representatives from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Department of Justice through the Offices of the Provincial Prosecutors, local government units, PNP oversight and intelligence units, and members of the media to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal procedures.

Authorities said the confiscated products underwent a controlled destruction process to ensure they could no longer be redistributed or re-enter commercial circulation. Beyond protecting consumers from unregulated products, the lawful disposal of seized evidence also helps maintain proper evidence management and strengthens the integrity of law enforcement operations.

The operation reflects the PNP's sustained campaign against economic sabotage and other illicit trade activities, consistent with the PNP Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations. It also supports the direction of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen law enforcement efforts that protect legitimate businesses, government revenues, and the welfare of the public.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., emphasized that law enforcement does not end with the seizure of illegal goods.

"Hindi nagtatapos ang trabaho natin sa pagkumpiska. Mahalaga ring masigurong ang mga ilegal na produkto ay tuluyan nang mawawala sa sirkulasyon. This is part of our responsibility to protect the public and uphold the rule of law."

He also commended the close coordination among partner agencies that made the destruction activity transparent and credible.

"Kapag magkakasama ang law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, LGUs, at iba pang partners, mas tumitibay ang tiwala ng publiko. We will continue to enforce our laws fairly and consistently while ensuring that seized contraband is properly accounted for and permanently disposed of."

The PNP reaffirmed that it will continue working with concerned government agencies in curbing the proliferation of illicit goods and strengthening enforcement efforts nationwide, in keeping with its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

20/07/2026

PNP READIES OVER 20,000 PERSONNEL FOR 5TH SONA SECURITY OPERATIONS

Eight days before the Fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 27, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has finalized and begun implementing its comprehensive security preparations, with 20,229 personnel designated for deployment to help ensure the safe, orderly, and peaceful conduct of one of the country's most significant national events.

The deployment reflects the PNP's dual objective of securing the SONA while ensuring that police services remain uninterrupted in communities across Metro Manila. Notably, 5,904 personnel have been designated to sustain anti-criminality and other police operations, ensuring continuous police visibility, crime prevention, and emergency response even as security measures for the SONA are intensified. Meanwhile, 2,345 personnel have been assigned to the House of Representatives, which will serve as the main venue of the President's address.

Additional personnel will be strategically positioned in designated staging areas, major thoroughfares, transport hubs, border control points, law enforcement checkpoints, emergency response units, public assistance stations, and other key convergence areas to maintain public order, facilitate traffic management, and provide immediate assistance before, during, and after the event.

The security preparations are being carried out in line with the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which strengthens intelligence-driven planning, inter-agency coordination, and proactive police presence during major national events while ensuring that the constitutional rights of all individuals are respected.

PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. assured the public that the organization is fully prepared to carry out its mandate with professionalism, discipline, and respect for the rights of every Filipino.

"Hindi lang ito tungkol sa seguridad ng SONA. Ang mahalaga, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang serbisyo ng pulisya sa ating mga komunidad habang tinitiyak nating magiging mapayapa at maayos ang pagdaraos ng okasyong ito. We want every Filipino to feel safe—whether they are attending the event, going to work, or simply carrying on with their daily lives,"PGen Nartatez said.

The Chief PNP likewise reminded all commanders and deployed personnel to remain disciplined, exercise maximum tolerance, and maintain professionalism throughout the security operations.

"Ang bilin ko sa ating mga pulis, pairalin ang disiplina, respeto, at malasakit sa bawat mamamayan. Our success will not only be measured by a peaceful SONA, but also by how we earn the trust and confidence of the public through our actions," the PNP Chief added.

The PNP continues to work closely with partner government agencies, local government units, and other stakeholders to synchronize security, traffic management, emergency preparedness, and public safety measures in the lead-up to the Fifth SONA of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

As preparations continue over the coming days, the PNP encourages the public to cooperate with lawful security measures and immediately report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.

Through these collective efforts, the PNP remains steadfast in advancing Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman, ensuring that the Fifth SONA is conducted in a secure, orderly, and peaceful environment for all.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP READIES OVER 20,000 PERSONNEL FOR 5TH SONA SECURITY OPERATIONS

Eight days before the Fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 27, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has finalized and begun implementing its comprehensive security preparations, with 20,229 personnel designated for deployment to help ensure the safe, orderly, and peaceful conduct of one of the country's most significant national events.

The deployment reflects the PNP's dual objective of securing the SONA while ensuring that police services remain uninterrupted in communities across Metro Manila. Notably, 5,904 personnel have been designated to sustain anti-criminality and other police operations, ensuring continuous police visibility, crime prevention, and emergency response even as security measures for the SONA are intensified. Meanwhile, 2,345 personnel have been assigned to the House of Representatives, which will serve as the main venue of the President's address.

Additional personnel will be strategically positioned in designated staging areas, major thoroughfares, transport hubs, border control points, law enforcement checkpoints, emergency response units, public assistance stations, and other key convergence areas to maintain public order, facilitate traffic management, and provide immediate assistance before, during, and after the event.

The security preparations are being carried out in line with the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which strengthens intelligence-driven planning, inter-agency coordination, and proactive police presence during major national events while ensuring that the constitutional rights of all individuals are respected.

PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. assured the public that the organization is fully prepared to carry out its mandate with professionalism, discipline, and respect for the rights of every Filipino.

"Hindi lang ito tungkol sa seguridad ng SONA. Ang mahalaga, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang serbisyo ng pulisya sa ating mga komunidad habang tinitiyak nating magiging mapayapa at maayos ang pagdaraos ng okasyong ito. We want every Filipino to feel safe—whether they are attending the event, going to work, or simply carrying on with their daily lives,"PGen Nartatez said.

The Chief PNP likewise reminded all commanders and deployed personnel to remain disciplined, exercise maximum tolerance, and maintain professionalism throughout the security operations.

"Ang bilin ko sa ating mga pulis, pairalin ang disiplina, respeto, at malasakit sa bawat mamamayan. Our success will not only be measured by a peaceful SONA, but also by how we earn the trust and confidence of the public through our actions," the PNP Chief added.

The PNP continues to work closely with partner government agencies, local government units, and other stakeholders to synchronize security, traffic management, emergency preparedness, and public safety measures in the lead-up to the Fifth SONA of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

As preparations continue over the coming days, the PNP encourages the public to cooperate with lawful security measures and immediately report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.

Through these collective efforts, the PNP remains steadfast in advancing Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman, ensuring that the Fifth SONA is conducted in a secure, orderly, and peaceful environment for all.

(PNP-PIO)

20/07/2026

LOOK: The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Chief, PNP PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., held its Monday Flag Raising Ceremony on July 20, 2026 at Camp Crame, Quezon City, with the attendance of Police Commissioned Officers, Police Non-Commissioned Officers, and Non-Uniformed Personnel.

In his message, PGEN Nartatez recognized the dedication and professionalism of police personnel who ensured the peaceful conduct of the nationwide public assemblies on July 19, highlighting the PNP’s impartiality and respect for every Filipino’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly. He also cited the positive results of the Safer Cities Initiative, including the reduction in focus crimes and intensified enforcement of local ordinances, and expressed confidence in the PNP’s preparedness to successfully host the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference this week.

The ceremony underscored the PNP’s unwavering commitment to its Focused Agenda by strengthening police operations, promoting integrity and accountability, and fostering active community support to ensure safer and more secure communities. Guided by these priorities, the organization remains steadfast in advancing institutional excellence toward a “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”


#

20/07/2026

LOOK: Representing PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police, Police Colonel Allen Rae F. Co, Officer-in-Charge, Public Information Office, appeared as a guest on Unang Hirit at 6:30 a.m. today, July 20, 2026, live from Studio 3, Ground Floor, GMA Main Building, Timog Avenue, Quezon City.

During the interview, PCOL Co discussed the country's current peace and order situation, recent incidents, and the Philippine National Police's intensified efforts to prevent crime, respond swiftly to incidents, and protect communities. He emphasized that peace and order is a shared responsibility and appealed for the continued cooperation of the public, stressing that while the PNP remains steadfast in carrying out its mandate, lasting public safety can only be achieved through the active participation and partnership of every Filipino.

He likewise encouraged the public to remain vigilant, verify information before sharing it on social media, promptly report crimes and suspicious activities through proper channels, and continue working hand in hand with law enforcement in building safer communities.

The PNP remains committed to strengthening public trust through responsive policing, transparency, and active community partnership as it advances its vision of "Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman."

(PNP-PIO)

20/07/2026

LOOK: Under the leadership of Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police, Police Colonel Allen Rae F. Co, Officer-in-Charge of the Public Information Office (PIO), led a press briefing at 10:00 a.m. today, July 20, 2026, at PIO Press Briefing Room, Camp Crame.

PCOL Co provided updates on the PNP's security preparations for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA), including deployment adjustments to ensure public safety while upholding the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. He also addressed concerns regarding rally permit applications, reaffirming the PNP's commitment to respecting lawful and peaceful public assemblies in coordination with local government units.

The briefing likewise covered the ongoing investigation into the killing of a vlogger in Caloocan City, with the assurance that the case is being handled through a fair, impartial, and thorough investigation. PCOL Co also shared the latest developments on the Safer Cities Initiative, highlighting its continuing gains in crime prevention through enhanced police visibility, proactive policing, and stronger community partnerships.

The PNP remains committed to transparent public communication and responsive policing under its banner, "Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman."

(PNP-PIO)

20/07/2026

LOOK: The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Chief, PNP PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., held its Monday Flag Raising Ceremony on July 20, 2026 at Camp Crame, Quezon City, with the attendance of Police Commissioned Officers, Police Non-Commissioned Officers, and Non-Uniformed Personnel.

In his message, PGEN Nartatez recognized the dedication and professionalism of police personnel who ensured the peaceful conduct of the nationwide public assemblies on July 19, highlighting the PNP’s impartiality and respect for every Filipino’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly. He also cited the positive results of the Safer Cities Initiative, including the reduction in focus crimes and intensified enforcement of local ordinances, and expressed confidence in the PNP’s preparedness to successfully host the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference this week.

The ceremony underscored the PNP’s unwavering commitment to its Focused Agenda by strengthening police operations, promoting integrity and accountability, and fostering active community support to ensure safer and more secure communities. Guided by these priorities, the organization remains steadfast in advancing institutional excellence toward a “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

05/07/2026

PNP UNCOVERS CTG WAR CACHE HIDDEN IN CAGAYAN MOUNTAIN HIDEOUT

The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., uncovered a concealed cache of fi****ms, explosives, ammunition, and other war materiel believed to have been hidden by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in a former hideout in Sitio Llaga, Barangay Mabuno, Gattaran, Cagayan on July 2, 2026. The recovery denied the threat group access to weapons that could have been used to support future violent and terrorist activities.

The successful intelligence-driven operation was carried out by the Police Regional Office 2 (PRO2) through the 2nd Cagayan Provincial Mobile Force Company, with support from the Gattaran Municipal Police Station, Cagayan Provincial Explosives and Canine Unit, Police Intelligence Team Cagayan North, Regional Intelligence Unit 2, and the 17th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

The operation was launched after authorities verified information provided by a former rebel returnee regarding the presence of a hidden arms cache in the mountainous portion of Barangay Mabuno.

Validation confirmed that the secluded area had previously served as a mobility corridor, transit route, and temporary concealment site of the CTG because of its rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and limited accessibility. Authorities believe the hidden war materiel had been stored for possible future retrieval by remaining CTG members to support armed operations and other unlawful activities.

Recovered during the operation were two M76 High Explosive rifle gr***des with canisters, one M76B High Explosive rifle gr***de with canister, two 40mm High Explosive Dual Purpose rounds, two 40mm High Explosive rounds, seven 12-gauge shotgun shells, 20 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 134 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two non-electric blasting caps, six rounds of caliber .38 ammunition, nine fired caliber .38 shell casings, two caliber .38 revolvers, one improvised shotgun with magazine, two M16 magazines, one extended caliber .45 magazine, and one 12-volt wet cell battery.

The recovered items, wrapped in black plastic cellophane sheets and placed inside sacks, were immediately subjected to inventory, marking, and photographic documentation before being turned over to the appropriate custodial units for proper handling and disposition.

The accomplishment highlights the PNP’s continuing campaign to locate and recover hidden weapons before they can be exploited by threat groups. It also reflects the PNP Focused Agenda, a strategic framework for organizational transformation that advances intelligence-driven policing through enhanced managing police operations to strengthen public safety and internal security.

“Every recovered weapon and explosive denies threat groups the means to carry out violence and undermine peace. We will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations to protect our communities and safeguard national security,” said PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.

“Hindi natin hahayaang magamit muli ang mga nakatagong armas at eksplosibo sa paghahasik ng takot at karahasan. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating mga operasyon,” he added.

As the PNP strengthens intelligence-driven operations to locate hidden war materiel, prevent the resurgence of threat groups, and reinforce internal security under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it remains committed to delivering “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP UNCOVERS CTG WAR CACHE HIDDEN IN CAGAYAN MOUNTAIN HIDEOUT

The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., uncovered a concealed cache of fi****ms, explosives, ammunition, and other war materiel believed to have been hidden by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in a former hideout in Sitio Llaga, Barangay Mabuno, Gattaran, Cagayan on July 2, 2026. The recovery denied the threat group access to weapons that could have been used to support future violent and terrorist activities.

The successful intelligence-driven operation was carried out by the Police Regional Office 2 (PRO2) through the 2nd Cagayan Provincial Mobile Force Company, with support from the Gattaran Municipal Police Station, Cagayan Provincial Explosives and Canine Unit, Police Intelligence Team Cagayan North, Regional Intelligence Unit 2, and the 17th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

The operation was launched after authorities verified information provided by a former rebel returnee regarding the presence of a hidden arms cache in the mountainous portion of Barangay Mabuno.

Validation confirmed that the secluded area had previously served as a mobility corridor, transit route, and temporary concealment site of the CTG because of its rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and limited accessibility. Authorities believe the hidden war materiel had been stored for possible future retrieval by remaining CTG members to support armed operations and other unlawful activities.

Recovered during the operation were two M76 High Explosive rifle gr***des with canisters, one M76B High Explosive rifle gr***de with canister, two 40mm High Explosive Dual Purpose rounds, two 40mm High Explosive rounds, seven 12-gauge shotgun shells, 20 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 134 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two non-electric blasting caps, six rounds of caliber .38 ammunition, nine fired caliber .38 shell casings, two caliber .38 revolvers, one improvised shotgun with magazine, two M16 magazines, one extended caliber .45 magazine, and one 12-volt wet cell battery.

The recovered items, wrapped in black plastic cellophane sheets and placed inside sacks, were immediately subjected to inventory, marking, and photographic documentation before being turned over to the appropriate custodial units for proper handling and disposition.

The accomplishment highlights the PNP’s continuing campaign to locate and recover hidden weapons before they can be exploited by threat groups. It also reflects the PNP Focused Agenda, a strategic framework for organizational transformation that advances intelligence-driven policing through enhanced managing police operations to strengthen public safety and internal security.

“Every recovered weapon and explosive denies threat groups the means to carry out violence and undermine peace. We will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations to protect our communities and safeguard national security,” said PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.

“Hindi natin hahayaang magamit muli ang mga nakatagong armas at eksplosibo sa paghahasik ng takot at karahasan. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating mga operasyon,” he added.

As the PNP strengthens intelligence-driven operations to locate hidden war materiel, prevent the resurgence of threat groups, and reinforce internal security under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it remains committed to delivering “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

02/07/2026

02/07/2026

PNP RECOMMENDS ADDITIONAL CHARGES IN DROWNING CASE OF TWO UNIVERSITY BASKETBALL PLAYERS

The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced a significant development in the investigation into the tragic drowning of two members of a university men's basketball team during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, 2026, with investigators recommending the filing of additional criminal charges as the case moves forward before the Department of Justice (DOJ).

While complaints for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 had earlier been filed against the former team head coach, alias "Tab," and 11 other respondents, the investigation has likewise resulted in the recommendation to file cases for Homicide against alias "Tab" and Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Multiple Homicide against him and eight other respondents. The complaints have been referred to the DOJ for evaluation and appropriate action in accordance with existing legal procedures.

On June 30, 2026, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) also met with the family of one of the victims at its headquarters to provide updates on the investigation. Investigators discussed the timeline of events, the evidence gathered, and the legal actions taken thus far. The CIDG likewise introduced the Command Group, investigators, intelligence personnel, and legal officers handling the case to assure the family that the investigation is being pursued thoroughly and objectively.

The continuing efforts of the PNP are aligned with its Focused Agenda, particularly under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar, which emphasizes professional investigations, accountability, and stronger coordination in the pursuit of justice. These efforts likewise support the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to uphold the rule of law and strengthen public confidence in the country's justice system.

Chief, PNP, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., assured the bereaved families that the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the case is pursued fairly and diligently.

"Sa bawat kasong may nawalang buhay, tungkulin naming tiyakin na ang katotohanan ay mailalabas sa tamang proseso ng batas. Hindi kami titigil hangga't hindi namin naibibigay ang pinakamahusay na imbestigasyon na nararapat para sa mga pamilya ng mga biktima. We remain committed to building a strong case founded on facts, evidence, and due process."

He added, "Nauunawaan namin ang bigat ng kanilang pinagdaraanan. Asahan po ninyo na ang PNP ay patuloy na kikilos nang may integridad, pagiging patas, at malasakit upang maihatid ang hustisya sa tamang panahon."

The PNP remains committed to working closely with the Department of Justice and other concerned agencies as the legal process continues, in line with the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, where every investigation is pursued with professionalism, accountability, and genuine public service.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP RECOMMENDS ADDITIONAL CHARGES IN DROWNING CASE OF TWO UNIVERSITY BASKETBALL PLAYERS

The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced a significant development in the investigation into the tragic drowning of two members of a university men's basketball team during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, 2026, with investigators recommending the filing of additional criminal charges as the case moves forward before the Department of Justice (DOJ).

While complaints for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 had earlier been filed against the former team head coach, alias "Tab," and 11 other respondents, the investigation has likewise resulted in the recommendation to file cases for Homicide against alias "Tab" and Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Multiple Homicide against him and eight other respondents. The complaints have been referred to the DOJ for evaluation and appropriate action in accordance with existing legal procedures.

On June 30, 2026, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) also met with the family of one of the victims at its headquarters to provide updates on the investigation. Investigators discussed the timeline of events, the evidence gathered, and the legal actions taken thus far. The CIDG likewise introduced the Command Group, investigators, intelligence personnel, and legal officers handling the case to assure the family that the investigation is being pursued thoroughly and objectively.

The continuing efforts of the PNP are aligned with its Focused Agenda, particularly under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar, which emphasizes professional investigations, accountability, and stronger coordination in the pursuit of justice. These efforts likewise support the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to uphold the rule of law and strengthen public confidence in the country's justice system.

Chief, PNP, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., assured the bereaved families that the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the case is pursued fairly and diligently.

"Sa bawat kasong may nawalang buhay, tungkulin naming tiyakin na ang katotohanan ay mailalabas sa tamang proseso ng batas. Hindi kami titigil hangga't hindi namin naibibigay ang pinakamahusay na imbestigasyon na nararapat para sa mga pamilya ng mga biktima. We remain committed to building a strong case founded on facts, evidence, and due process."

He added, "Nauunawaan namin ang bigat ng kanilang pinagdaraanan. Asahan po ninyo na ang PNP ay patuloy na kikilos nang may integridad, pagiging patas, at malasakit upang maihatid ang hustisya sa tamang panahon."

The PNP remains committed to working closely with the Department of Justice and other concerned agencies as the legal process continues, in line with the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, where every investigation is pursued with professionalism, accountability, and genuine public service.

(PNP-PIO)