QCPD relieves cop over alleged lapse in handling INC rally clash
By Trixee Rosel
The headquarters of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD). (Photo courtesy of Quezon City government)
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) has relieved a police officer caught in a viral video allegedly mishandling a June 30 confrontation between a motorcycle rider and Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) rally participants along EDSA near the People Power Monument.
QCPD director Police Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio said the patrolman assigned to the District Mobile Force Battalion was placed under a pre-charge investigation, with the relief order taking effect on July 2 pending the outcome of the administrative probe.
Silvio said the officer was transferred to the District Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (DPHAS), which handles police personnel awaiting reassignment, investigation, or administrative action, following the relief order.
The investigation stemmed from a viral video showing a confrontation involving a motorcycle rider, INC rally participants, and the responding police officer.
In the clip, the rider alleged that rally participants seized his motorcycle key after he was stuck in traffic near the protest.
He also alleged that the responding police officer reprimanded him instead of immediately intervening against those who were allegedly harassing him, while one participant was heard making a threatening remark.
In accordance with standard procedure, the officer surrendered his issued firearm, Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) equipment, and other accountable properties pending the investigation.
Silvio clarified that relieving the officer from his post does not mean he has been dismissed from service, adding that he may have been exercising restraint and attempting to de-escalate the situation.
“The immediate conduct of the pre-charge investigation reflects the QCPD’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and due process,” Silvio said.
“We will ensure that the investigation proceeds fairly, objectively, and in accordance with established legal and administrative procedures to determine the facts and any corresponding liability. We remain steadfast in upholding the rule of law while protecting the rights of all parties involved,” he added.