CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Two police officers assigned to a police station in Cagayan de Oro City have been relieved from their posts and disarmed while authorities investigate allegations that they sexually harassed two female criminology interns.
The officers—a police captain and a police corporal assigned to Police Station 7 in Barangay Bulua—were placed under the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office pending the investigation.
The alleged incident reportedly took place on August 8, 2026, and involved two 21-year-old female criminology interns who were undergoing their training at the station, according to reports from GMA News and other Philippine news organizations.
PNP orders investigation
The Philippine National Police has treated the allegations seriously, with PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directing authorities to conduct an investigation and determine whether administrative or criminal charges should be filed.
Nartatez ordered the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) and the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) to expedite the investigation. The PNP Internal Affairs Service was also directed to monitor the proceedings to help ensure that the investigation remains impartial.
The police chief said the organization would not tolerate abuse of authority or conduct that violates the dignity and rights of interns, civilians, or fellow personnel.
PRO-10 spokesperson Maj. Joann Navarro likewise said the allegations could constitute grave misconduct if established, an administrative offense that can carry severe penalties, including dismissal from the police service.
Professional group considers legal action
The Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines (PCAP) has also expressed concern over the allegations.
PCAP president Gerry Caño said the organization had communicated with the two interns and was looking into possible legal and administrative action. The group said such proceedings could potentially affect the officers’ professional licenses if violations are established.
Meanwhile, reports said authorities are taking steps to protect the interns during the investigation. COCPO has indicated that victim-centered procedures and psychological support are being considered or provided as the case is reviewed.
Investigation remains ongoing
The allegations have not been conclusively established, and the identities of the officers and interns have not been publicly disclosed.
Authorities are expected to gather statements from the complainants and other witnesses before determining whether formal administrative or criminal cases should be pursued.
The development comes as PRO-10’s new leadership has emphasized stricter disciplinary action against police personnel accused of misconduct. PNA reported that the regional police office has vowed to act against officers involved in alleged abuses and other violations.
For now, the two officers remain under investigation and are presumed innocent unless the allegations are proven through the appropriate legal and administrative processes.
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