Cop relieved for allegedly failing to protect rider in INC-led rally

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MANILA, Philippines — A patrolman was relieved from his post for allegedly failing to protect a motorcycle rider who was reportedly blocked by protesters during the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC)-led rally in Quezon City earlier this week.

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In a press briefing in Camp Crame on Friday, Philippine National Police (PNP) public information chief Col. Allen Rae Co said the patrolman, who was assigned to the Quezon City Police District Mobile Force Battalion (QCPD MFB), has been placed under Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (PHAS).

READ: Raffy Tulfo slams cop who failed to protect rider in INC-led rally

“He’s now placed under PHAS. That doesn’t have any bearing on the investigation. It’s for us to have quick access to him while the investigation is ongoing,” Co said.

PHAS is a holding unit for police officers who have been relieved from their posts or are awaiting new assignments.

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“We would like to review everything that happened and all the circumstances regarding the incident. The QCPD has already been directed to talk to all parties concerned,” he said.

The move came after a video circulated online showing the officer allegedly failing to intervene when a motorcycle rider claimed rally participants took his keys, shouted at him, and threatened him.

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On Thursday, Sen. Raffy Tulfo criticized the police officer and suggested the latter should go under retraining.

READ: PNP stays on alert as INC rally moves to Manila

Co, however, said the officer appeared to be trying to calm the situation but stressed that the PNP would not make any conclusions until the investigation is completed.

“But if you really look at it, he was trying to pacify the situation, trying to reassure. That’s what we think… But, then again, we wouldn’t like to make any conclusions. We’re not saying the police officer had no fault here,” the police official said.

“Regarding the statement of the good Senator Tulfo, we respect and we acknowledge his concern for the Philippine National Police. We will surely take into consideration his recommendation for retraining if warranted.”

The INC rally began with an unscheduled protest-action near the People Power Monument in Quezon City early Tuesday, causing traffic disruptions along White Plains Avenue and Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (Edsa).

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The demonstration ended after moving to the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on Thursday./dp