LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — Seventy police officers from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-B (RMFB) under PRO-BAR have been placed on administrative relief following the viral circulation of videos and photos showing the physical abuse of new graduates during a Basic Internal Security Training reception in Lamitan City last week.

According to PNP Public Information Office Chief, Police Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, an additional 12 officers directly involved in the incident have been permanently dismissed from service. The dismissed personnel have been temporarily assigned to the Regional Personnel Records Management Division – Regional Police Holding and Accounting Section in Parang, Maguindanao, as part of ongoing administrative procedures.

Authorities reported that 18 police officers have filed complaints related to the incident, with numbers expected to rise to approximately 110. Administrative cases are being prepared against those involved, highlighting the growing concern over disciplinary and ethical standards within the police ranks in BARMM.

The incident has sparked public outrage, especially on social media, prompting calls for stronger accountability measures for law enforcement personnel. It also raises critical questions about the culture of hazing and abuse in police training programs and whether administrative relief and dismissals are sufficient deterrents for future misconduct.

As investigations continue, the situation underscores the urgent need for reforms and stricter oversight in police training and recruitment. How can the Philippine National Police ensure discipline and protect new officers from abuse while maintaining operational readiness? (Larawan mula sa: PRO-BAR via Jaymark Dagala/Radyo Pilipinas)