CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY(February 9) — Over 70 police officers in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have been administratively relieved following allegations of hazing against 128 recruits in Basilan, authorities said.
The officers belonged to the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 14-B under Police Regional Office–BARMM (PRO-BAR) and were replaced by members of 14-A, according to PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño.
“All members of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-B, 70 plus, are now administratively relieved,” Tuaño said in a press briefing at Camp Crame.
Among those relieved, 12 non-commissioned officers were positively identified by complainants. The officers are currently under the PRO-BAR holding and accounting section in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, pending investigation for potential violations of the Anti-Hazing Act (RA 11053).
“The Philippine National Police maintains zero tolerance for hazing in training and welcome rites,” Tuaño added.
Recruits’ ordeal
The complaint initially came from one recruit, later joined by statements from 18 classmates and eventually 110 others. Investigators are still determining if additional officers were involved.
Recruits reportedly suffered physical injuries, including hematomas, punches, slaps, and other forms of assault, during the alleged incident last week at the RMFB headquarters in Barangay Ubit, Lamitan City, Basilan.
An initial police report detailed that recruits were forced to duck-walk, lie and roll on the ground, and were beaten with wooden sticks and arnis. All victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation.
Oversight and accountability
The National Police Commission is conducting a parallel investigation, citing its mandate to uphold human rights and ensure lawful treatment of police personnel.
Meanwhile, PRO-BAR chief Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman visited the recruits in Lamitan City to assure them of a thorough and impartial investigation.
“We are committed to protecting the welfare of our recruits and ensuring that no member of our force abuses their authority,” Tuaño said.
The PNP said the case sends a strong message that hazing will not be tolerated, and officers involved in training abuses will face administrative and legal consequences.
Voices From the Ground
“I was scared to report it at first, but my classmates encouraged me. I just want to recover and continue my training safely,” said one recruit who requested anonymity.
“We came here to serve our community, not to be beaten,” added another recruit.
A parent of one of the recruits said, “I never imagined this could happen. I hope the authorities hold the culprits accountable so no other family goes through this.”
These voices highlight the physical and emotional toll of hazing, and the urgent need for stronger safeguards in police training.
