An unauthorized operation conducted in Las Piñas City resulted in the alleged robbery of PHP85 million from a Chinese businessman, but no senior police officials are reported to be involved. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said that eight members of the Eastern Police District’s District Special Operations Unit, who carried out the operation on April 2, are currently detained. These officers face both criminal and administrative charges, including robbery, serious illegal detention, kidnapping, and unlawful arrest.
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered the immediate relief of the Eastern Police District Director, Brig. Gen. Villamor Tuliao, along with the entire unit, citing “grave leadership failure.” Marbil warned that any officer found to be part of such unauthorized operations could be summarily dismissed and permanently disqualified from holding any government position.
Brig. Gen. Rogelio Peñones Jr., deputy chief for administration of the National Capital Region Police Office, confirmed that criminal charges have been filed against the eight officers with the Las Piñas prosecutor’s office. Investigators have uncovered discrepancies in the operation. According to reports from the victim’s relatives, officers allegedly disabled nearby CCTV cameras, forcibly opened vaults, and removed money, jewelry, gadgets, and other personal belongings. Peñones explained that although a warrant was served to justify their presence, the underlying motive appears to have been robbery.
PNP Internal Affairs Service Inspector General Brigido Dulay noted additional breaches of standard procedure, including the absence of body-worn camera footage, the deliberate destruction of CCTV recordings, and a failure to promptly account for confiscated items. He stressed that the investigation will address all lapses, holding not only the perpetrators but also any negligent superiors accountable.
During a flag-raising ceremony at Camp Crame, PNP Chief Marbil emphasized that each officer’s conduct reflects on the entire organization. “Our actions directly affect the reputation of the Philippine National Police,” he said, urging all officers to adhere strictly to operational protocols and the highest standards of integrity and accountability.