MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has administratively relieved more than 70 police officers in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) following a massive hazing scandal involving 129 police recruits.
The incident, which reportedly took place on February 5, 2026, has led to the total replacement of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14B (RMFB) based in Lamitan City, Basilan.
Details of the Incident According to police reports, the recruits were subjected to severe physical maltreatment at the RMFB headquarters in Barangay Ubit:
- Physical Abuse: Recruits were allegedly ordered to perform “duck walks” and roll on the ground while being subjected to physical assault.
- Weapons Used: Officers allegedly used wooden sticks and arnis sticks to beat the trainees. Complainants reported injuries including hematoma, punched faces, and slapped ears.
- Scale of Complainants: What began as a complaint from a single recruit quickly grew, with 128 others coming forward to provide statements.
Administrative and Legal Action PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño announced the following measures during a press briefing at Camp Crame:
- Full Unit Relief: The entire 70-plus member unit of RMFB 14B has been sacked and replaced by members from RMFB 14A.
- Detention: The relieved officers are currently being held at the police regional office’s holding and accounting section in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte.
- Criminal Charges: The suspects—which include five corporals, five patrolmen, and several unidentified officers—face charges for violating Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act.
Official Stance The PNP has reiterated a “zero tolerance” policy for hazing during training and welcome rites. “Whoever will be proven guilty will be held accountable through criminal and administrative cases,” Tuaño said, echoing the orders of the Chief PNP.
Ongoing Investigations The National Police Commission (Napolcom) Bangsamoro office has launched a separate, independent investigation. Meanwhile, all 129 complainants are undergoing comprehensive medical evaluations to document their injuries for the upcoming legal proceedings. The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) has also issued a statement condemning the incident, adding to the growing regional outcry over the treatment of the trainees.