MISAMIS ORIENTAL — A police officer in Misamis Oriental is under custody after a minor filed a complaint alleging a violation of the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, according to the Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office (MORPPO).
MORPPO said the officer is undergoing inquest proceedings, while administrative action is also being pursued under Philippine National Police rules.
The alleged victim was given assistance and referred to the proper authorities for intervention and examination after the complaint was received, police said.
Provincial Director PCOL Al M. Abanales ordered a thorough, impartial and expedited investigation, saying the officer would not receive preferential treatment because of his position.
“We strongly condemn any form of sexual violence, especially when the victim is a minor,” Abanales said. “The uniform does not place anyone above the law.”
He said police would observe due process while protecting the victim’s rights and welfare and pursuing accountability based on the evidence.
MORPPO also urged the public and media to protect the minor’s identity and avoid sharing details that could lead to her identification.
The case comes amid heightened scrutiny of police personnel following a separate August incident involving two male police trainees accused of sexually assaulting a female batchmate at a beach in Misamis Oriental.
The trainees were reportedly arrested and placed under police custody.
MORPPO said it remains committed to accountability, integrity and the rule of law as the latest case is investigated.
