MANILA, Philippines- The Philippine National Police (PNP) has dismissed 11 members of its elite Special Action Force (SAF) for their alleged involvement in unauthorized escort services provided to a Chinese national linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO).

Based on the recommendation of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS), PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil, approved the dismissal of the officers, who include Lt. Col. Joseph A. Bagsao, Captains Roy A. Pleños, Dale Andrei D. Duterte, and Jesttony F. Asanion; Lieutenants Aaron F. Tudlong and Michael C. Misa; Police Executive Master Sergeant Aaron A. Turano; Police Senior Master Sergeants Edmark A. Mabini and Albert S. Gandipon; Corporal George R. Mabuti; and Patrolman Roger R. Valdez Jr.

They were found guilty of grave misconduct, dishonesty, grave irregularity in the performance of their duties, and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, according to PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.

Upon dismissal, the police officers will forfeit their benefits, lose their eligibility, and face permanent disqualification from holding any government positions.

The PNP also meted out a 31-day suspension to Captain Mark Victor M. Pineda for simple and less grave neglect of duty. Meanwhile, Captain Julius G. Tacay, Chief Master Sergeant Leolito A. Calasang, and Corporal Rusty D. Araya were exonerated due to insufficient evidence.

The case originated from a fistfight incident on May 18 in a posh village in Ayala-Alabang, Muntinlupa City, involving two SAF members assigned to the 52nd and 55th Special Action Companies in Zamboanga. The PNP Internal Affairs Service (IAS) investigation uncovered that the two troopers had been moonlighting as security escorts without proper authorization. Further probing revealed a cover-up attempt by ranking officials, who manipulated daily reports to falsely indicate that the accused were present at their posts.

Lt. Col. Bagsao and PEMS Turano allegedly deployed the troopers as escorts for the Chinese national and his children, while Cpt. Pleños and PSMS Gandipon reportedly falsified reports to conceal the troops’ absences. Additionally, Pat. Valdez was accused of transferring funds from the unauthorized escort services to another officer’s account.

PNP Chief Marbil condemned the actions of the dismissed officers, stating that the organization remains committed to upholding professionalism and accountability.

“Let it be clear that the Philippine National Police does not and will not tolerate any form of misconduct or dishonesty within its ranks. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and accountability, and those who fail to uphold these values will be held accountable,” Gen. Marbil said.

📷 PNP PIO