Abalos: Probe PNP exec over restobar shooting

Abalos: Probe PNP exec over restobar shooting

MANILA, Philippines — Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos yesterday ordered an investigation of a Philippine National Police (PNP) official who reportedly fired his handgun in front of a restobar in Quezon City over the weekend.

Lt. Col. Mark Julio Abong, who is assigned with the PNP’s Legal Service, was arrested following the incident in Barangay Laging Handa.

Abong also figured in a hit-and-run case that killed a tricycle driver in Quezon City in August 2022.

On March 31 this year, the People’s Law Enforcement Board of Quezon City had ordered Abong’s dismissal from the service over the hit-and-run case. The PLEB has wondered why Abong has remained in the PNP.

“I condemn in the strongest terms actions and omissions committed by public servants, especially members of law enforcement agencies, that are violating laws and policies. Law-breaking policemen have no place in the PNP,” Abalos said.

“I will not tolerate that. Abong’s unwanted actuations smack of abuse of power and authority by a man in uniform,” he added.

Abalos ordered a comprehensive background check on Abong’s status in the PNP so that appropriate actions can be taken.

Abong has been charged with physical injury, slander by deed, disobedience upon an agent of person in authority, illegal discharge of firearm as well as the Omnibus Election Code.

A separate administrative complaint against Abong was referred to the PNP Internal Affairs Service.

Mayor Joy Belmonte earlier instructed Quezon City Police District (QCPD) chief Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan to look into the gun-firing incident involving Abong.

Abalos commended the QCPD for its swift action that resulted in the arrest of Abong.

“The public is assured that as chairman of the National Police Commission and secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, I will see to it that justice will be served and the full force of the law would be applied to Abong if he is found liable,” Abalos said.