Two law enforcement officers in Marikina face charges for inappropriately sexually advancing towards a fellow officer.
In a press conference, Eastern Police District (EPD) Director, Brigadier General Aden Lagradante, announced the initiation of an investigation into allegations of sexual assault and acts of lasciviousness against two male officers within the EPD.
The incident, which occurred around 9:30 p.m., involved a female colleague who was on duty at the time. The two suspects, a patrolman and a police staff sergeant, allegedly picked up the female colleague on August 17 and invited her for coffee. However, the nature of the sexual offenses remains undisclosed.
The location of the incident was along the jogging lane in Libis, Barangay Sto. Niño. The suspects are reported to have molested the victim inside a police mobile.
The investigation will be extensive, covering not only the two suspects, but also their colleagues, team leaders, chief supervisor, sector commander, station commander, and the Women and Children Protection Desk. This is to ensure a thorough examination of command responsibility.
The victim was provided with professional counseling and debriefing to support her during this difficult time.
Philippine National Police Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez assured that the matter is being addressed, and the relief of the two officers is pending the investigation's outcome. It is worth noting that no public information or credible sources identify any current Eastern Police District official under investigation for sexual assault against a female colleague.
In a separate development, the police chief of Marikina City, Colonel Geoffrey Fernandez, has been administratively relieved, although the reasons for his relief were not disclosed.
The EPD and the Philippine National Police reaffirm their commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct and maintaining the trust of the public they serve. Updates on the investigation will be provided as more information becomes available.
