Group seeks dismissal of cops in Cagayan de Oro intern ‘abuse’

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — A group of criminologists has called for the dismissal of two police officers accused of acts of lasciviousness against two female criminology student-interns inside a police station here.

Gerry Caño, president of the Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines (PCAP), said the group would provide legal assistance to the interns and help file administrative complaints.

“We will lead and take charge of filing the administrative cases,” Caño said in an online interview.

Article continues after this advertisement

He said officers found guilty of misconduct and violations of the Safe Spaces Act should face administrative and criminal charges, including possible revocation of their professional licenses.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

READ: 2 cops under investigation for alleged abuses – PNP

“Touching or caressing the body parts of female interns must not be taken lightly or treated as a joke,” Caño said, urging the Commission on Higher Education and other concerned agencies to strengthen safeguards against sexual harassment during student internships.

PCAP is prepared to assist the victims in filing complaints before the Professional Regulation Commission, National Police Commission, People’s Law Enforcement Board and Office of the Ombudsman, Caño said.

Confirmation

The call followed confirmation by the Police Regional Office (PRO)-10 that a police captain and a corporal allegedly committed acts of lasciviousness against two female interns inside Police Station 7 of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) on Aug. 8.

Article continues after this advertisement

PRO-10 Director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. said the two officers had been placed under restrictive custody at the Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit.

“Misconduct will not be tolerated,” Babagay said, stressing that police personnel must uphold professionalism, integrity and respect for the dignity and welfare of others.

Article continues after this advertisement

He directed the Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division to conduct a pre-charge evaluation, while COCPO director Col. Dexter Paje was instructed to assist the alleged victims through the Women and Children Protection Desk in filing criminal complaints.

The COCPO earlier formed an investigation team after a local higher education institution requested the withdrawal of its student-trainees following complaints of sexual harassment. /cb