QC disbands Task Force Disiplina after enforcer kills 3 teens

MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City has abolished its Task Force Disiplina effective Tuesday and ordered its members to undergo strict background checks, neuropsychological examinations, and drug testing before they can return to the Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS).

“Wala nang awtorisadong operasyon o pagroronda sa ilalim ng Task Force Disiplina,” said the city government in a statement on Tuesday, with instructions from Mayor Joy Belmonte ordering all its members to immediately return to and report to their mother unit, the DPOS.

(No operations or patrols are authorized under Task Force Disiplina anymore.)

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The statement comes after three teenagers were killed on Monday in an incident involving an allegedly intoxicated Task Force Disiplina member.

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The city government said police arrested the 38-year-old suspect, identified only as “Vin,” during follow-up operations. 

He was accused of killing three teenagers aged 15, 18, and 19, and is facing three counts of murder before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.

READ: No remorse: Task Force Disiplina enforcer kills 3 teens; QC vows reforms

According to the city government, those seeking to remain with the DPOS must pass background checks and medical tests, and submit NBI and police clearances, with no exemptions.

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The local government clarified that no firearms were issued to any member of Task Force Disiplina. 

“Sa hanay ng mga tauhan at force multiplier ng lungsod, tanging mga pulis lamang ang awtorisadong magdala ng armas,” said the city government.

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(Among the city’s personnel and force multipliers, only police officers are authorized to carry firearms.)

Meanwhile, Mayor Belmonte has directed the Quezon City Police District, led by Brig. Gen. Chris Olazo, to immediately intensify its campaign against illegal firearms.

The public is urged to immediately call Helpline 122 if they see any uniformed Task Force Disiplina members continuing to patrol their barangays. 

They are also encouraged to report any information about civilians carrying or keeping suspected illegal firearms.

“Walang buhay na dapat mawala dahil sa iresponsableng paggamit ng armas,” said the city government.

(No life should be lost due to the irresponsible use of firearms.)

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The city government stressed that protecting public safety remains its primary responsibility, adding that public service has no place for individuals who fail to uphold this duty. /gsg