Patrolman Fontillas  to undergo neuropsychiatric exam, PNP Says

DAVAO CITY —A police officer facing multiple charges for his social media posts in connection with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) case against former president Rodrigo Duterte will now undergo a neuropsychiatric exam, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Tuesday.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo confirmed that Police Pat. Francis Steve Fontillas is facing administrative complaints, including grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, in addition to a criminal case for inciting to sedition filed before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.

Fontillas has been placed under restricted custody.

“Magsasailalim siya sa neuropsychiatric examination para i-check din at i-examine kung ano ba yung kanyang kasalukuyang mental status (He will undergo a neuropsychiatric examination to check and examine his current mental status),” Fajardo said during a virtual press conference.

Fontillas had posted threatening comments on social media targeting the government, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), and the ICC following Duterte’s arrest on March 11.

Alongside his controversial remarks online, Fajardo revealed that Fontillas was absent without official leave (AWOL) from March 6 to 19. He reported for duty at the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on March 20 and was placed under restrictive custody.

Fontillas, who has a history of disturbing behavior, including having a short temper and mood swings, was reported to have received medication for his condition in 2023.

“Hahayaan muna natin yung evaluation at assessment na gagawin ng PNP Health Service to determine kung ito bang police na ito ay mentally fit pa to continue his police service (We will first allow the evaluation and assessment to be conducted by the PNP Health Service to determine whether this police officer is still mentally fit to continue his police service),” Fajardo added.