Police Chief, 16 Others Relieved After Drinking Photos Go Viral in Eastern Samar

TACLOBAN CITY — Seventeen personnel of the Philippine National Police, including a police chief, were relieved from their posts on December 18 due to photos of them reportedly drinking inside their station in Eastern Samar that went viral on social media.

The incident took place at the Dolores Municipal Police Station, where 16 members of the Philippine National Police were seen drinking inside the station, one of whom was not in uniform.

Initial reports indicated that the gathering was part of a Christmas celebration. However, there was no disturbance or commotion caused by the incident, but rather a violation of PNP rules, as authorities emphasized.

Police Regional Office (PRO) 8 public information chief, Lt. Col. Analiza Catilogo-Armeza, confirmed that the chief of the town police was relieved from duty based on the principle of command responsibility.

Armeza stressed that the PNP has a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct, including behaviors that tarnish the image of the PNP.

The circulation of the photos sparked public concern and criticism on social media, questioning the discipline of the police force’s rank and file. This has prompted PRO-8 to relieve the personnel involved and begin  the process of replacing them to ensure uninterrupted police service in Dolores.

PRO-8  reiterated that police stations are places of public service and authority, not venues for social gatherings with alcohol. Authorities assured the public that administrative procedures would be followed, and any violations of  PNP rules and regulations would be addressed accordingly.

Once again, the police leadership reminded all members that integrity and discipline are crucial for maintaining public confidence, especially during this time of year when the presence and visibility of the police are expected to be heightened.

(Photo taken from the PRO8 Facebook Page)