BACOLOD City – The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) has initiated criminal and administrative proceedings against a police officer accused of demanding and accepting bribes from an aspiring Philippine National Police (PNP) applicant.
The investigation stems from a complaint filed with the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO). The complainant alleged that the police officer accepted an initial sum of money and subsequently demanded additional payments under the pretense of guaranteeing the applicant’s entry into the police service.
In response, PRO-NIR director Brigadier General Romano V. Cardiño firmly reminded the public that entry into the PNP is strictly free of charge and based entirely on qualification, competence, and merit.
“The integrity of the recruitment process is non-negotiable,” Cardiño said. “We will never tolerate any act that undermines public trust or exploits the aspirations of individuals who wish to serve in the police organization.”
PRO-NIR confirmed that formal legal and administrative actions are already underway to establish accountability, alongside a parallel investigation adhering to standard PNP protocols.
Cardiño assured the public of a thorough and impartial inquiry, warning that any personnel found guilty for violating existing laws, rules and regulations will face appropriate criminal and administrative sanctions.
The regional office also urged other victims or individuals who may have experienced similar incidents or possess information on recruitment-related extortion to step forward and report the matters immediately.
“The PNP badge is earned through qualification, character, and dedication to public service, never through influence, promises, or payment,” Cardiño emphasized. (Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
