12 cops in hazing of rookies indicted

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February 11, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Criminal charges have been filed against 12 members of the Bangsamoro police in connection with the brutal hazing of police recruits in Lamitan, Basilan last week.

Charges for violating Republic Act 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Law were filed against the 12, who are members of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-14 (RMFB-14).

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez warned police officers to refrain from subjecting to hazing new members of the PNP as part of welcoming rites.

“Personnel found to have participated in, organized or facilitated hazing activities are subject to administrative sanctions including dismissal from service, and may also face criminal liability in accordance with the law,” Nartatez said in a statement.

Among those indicted are a police colonel, a major, five corporals and five patrolmen.

PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño did not identify the 12, who were among 22 members of the RMFB-14 placed under restrictive custody for conducting the hazing in Barangay Ubit on Feb. 5.

Tuaño said the number of respondents may increase as investigation and information gathering are still ongoing.

Among those charged and relieved from their posts was Col. Joel Estaris, chief of the RMBF-14.

Tuaño said that Estaris was included in the charge sheet as he was reportedly present while the hazing was being conducted, based on sworn testimonies of some complainants.

Up to 129 new policemen suffered injuries, 96 of whom sustained hematoma and contusions in their lower extremities.

The rest were hit in the upper parts of their bodies.

Tuaño said the perpetrators used a wooden cane and a baseball bat in beating up the rookies.

Nartatez said he had ordered all police commanders to monitor the training of PNP members, and immediately report and address cases of hazing.

“Hazing has no place in the organization and violators will be held accountable without exception,” Nartatez said.