THE POLICE Regional Office (PRO) XI confirmed on Wednesday the arrest of two active police officers caught allegedly transporting illegal mineral ores during a checkpoint operation in Opol, Misamis Oriental.
According to PRO XI spokesperson Major Catherine Dela Rey, the two personnel, a police master sergeant (PMSg) and a police staff sergeant (PSSg), both assigned to the Monkayo Municipal Police Station in Davao de Oro, were intercepted by joint units alongside four civilians.
Authorities recovered 58 sacks of suspected unprocessed mineral ores with an estimated value of ₱290,000.
Also seized were a vehicle, firearms, ammunition, and communication equipment.
The suspects face charges for violating Republic Act No. 7942, also known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
PRO XI regional director BGen Leon Victor Z. Rosete expressed disappointment but reaffirmed the command’s stance on discipline.
“Let this serve as a firm reminder that the uniform is not a shield for lawlessness,” Rosete said. “We will not allow the actions of a few to tarnish the hard work and dedication of the thousands of honest men and women in PRO XI.”
“While it is disheartening to see members of our own ranks implicated in such activities, let this serve as a firm reminder that the uniform is not a shield for lawlessness,” said Rosete. “Our commitment to the people of the Davao Region is built on trust and integrity. We will not allow the actions of a few to tarnish the hard work and dedication of the thousands of honest men and women in PRO XI.”
Rest assured that PRO XI is fully cooperating with the investigating units to gather all necessary facts, in line with the guidance of the chief, PNP, Gen Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
Furthermore, PRO XI remains committed to a high standard of discipline. Any member of this PRO found deviating from our core values will be dealt with according to existing laws and regulations after a fair and thorough investigation, ensuring that due process is upheld.
“PRO XI remains focused on our mission to serve and protect. We ask the public to remain confident in the Philippine National Police, and this PRO as we continue to uphold the principles of accountability and the rule of law,” Rosete added.
Investigation and custody
In a phone interview on Wednesday, April 29, PRO XI spokesperson Col Catherine Dela Rey confirmed that the two officers remain in Misamis Oriental while the investigation continues.
“We are investigating why they were in that area and what their specific involvement was, considering they are active-duty personnel from Davao de Oro,” Dela Rey told TIMES.
Dela Rey emphasized that the regional office does not tolerate “scalawags” in the service. “Whether you are a high-ranking officer or not, if you do something illegal, you will face the consequences. This serves as a warning to others,” she added.
If the suspects are granted bail, Dela Rey noted they would likely be reassigned to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit (PHAU) at the regional headquarters or at Camp Crame while administrative proceedings move forward.
