- DCPO opens probe into misconduct claims in Ma-a and Calinan
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) has launched an internal investigation into reported incidents of police misconduct involving personnel in barangays Ma-a and Calinan, confirming that the officers have been temporarily relieved of their duties.
In a statement released by the command, police authorities confirmed that the involved personnel have been reassigned to administrative holding units while the formal inquiry is ongoing.
The police leadership stressed that the temporary reassignment aims to guarantee an unhindered, transparent, and fair investigation into the allegations circulating online and across local communities.
“We take all allegations of police misconduct with utmost seriousness. Our command remains firmly committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights across all police units,” the DCPO director PCOL Peter Madria said.
The command gave assurances that strict administrative and legal actions will be enforced should investigators find sufficient evidence of breach of protocol, administrative violations, or criminal liability.
“Should the investigation yield evidence of misconduct, administrative violations, or criminal liability, appropriate disciplinary and legal action will be meted out without hesitation or favor,” he added, reiterating that actions compromising public trust will not be tolerated.
Recently, Madria ordered an inquiry following a social media post in which a female complainant alleged that she was treated disrespectfully by responding officers while being cited for a local violation.
According to the initial report, patrolling officers encountered the complainant in the act of vaping in public, which is strictly prohibited under Davao City’s Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance.
While acknowledging the anti-vaping enforcement, the complainant alleged that the officer involved exhibited unprofessional behavior during the apprehension.
In response, the police leadership has ordered the officer involved to submit a formal explanation to determine if protocols or administrative standards were breached.
The DCPO assured the public that the investigation will remain fair, objective, and compliant with PNP regulations.
“To ensure the proper disposition of the case, the complainant is strongly encouraged to visit the DCPO office to formally lodge an official statement,” the command stated, emphasizing that due process will be strictly observed for both parties.
On Monday, the law enforcer implicated in the alleged physical injury is not a member of Police Station 10 (Calinan), but is instead assigned to the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB).
While police have withheld the exact identities of the personnel involved, Saavedra confirmed that the command will proceed to file administrative charges against the officer in accordance with internal regulations.
However, they await the family’s decision on whether or not to proceed with the criminal case.
As investigators compile and review facts related to both the Ma-a and Calinan incidents, the DCPO appealed to the public and members of the press to allow due process to take its course. Local authorities urged the community to rely on official updates as formal findings are finalized.
