Eleven police officers from the Angono Municipal Police Station, including its chief, were removed from their posts following a complaint by a criminology student who alleged he was robbed in November 2025 in San Isidro, Angono, Rizal.
The Philippine National Police said the move reflects its firm stance against irregularities within its ranks.
Relieved from his post under command responsibility was Police Col. Ariel Azurin. Also removed were 10 members of the anti-drug unit: Police Capt. Francis Caparas; Police Chief Master Sgt. Randell Evardone; Police Master Sgts. Jeffrey Godalle and Michael Maandal; Police Staff Sgts. Rommel Bilog, Daril Piamonte, Rowel Sabangan, Alejandro Probadora and Brian Moises; and Police Cpl. Andres Buelo Jr.
They face administrative charges of grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer before the National Police Commission.
Based on the complaint, officers allegedly stopped two men on a motorcycle in November and accused them of involvement in illegal drugs. Minutes later, the complainant, identified as Nestor Macabenta Jr., was also stopped and allegedly tagged as a drug supplier.
The complaint stated that his gold ring was taken and that he was brought to the police station. He was allegedly asked for 50,000 pesos in exchange for not filing charges.
According to the complaint, the victim’s sibling sent money to an e-wallet account of one of the officers, but he was not immediately released. The student was freed in January after a court dismissed the case filed against him.
Despite the controversy, the PNP said it does not tolerate abuse of authority. It said the removal of the officers is part of its internal cleansing program to maintain integrity and public trust.
The PNP said it continues to coordinate with the National Police Commission and other agencies to ensure a fair and thorough investigation.
