The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Thursday that they are investigating 24 of their former chiefs following allegations that one of them may have helped dismissed Mayor Alice Guo and her group escape the country.
During a recent Senate hearing focused on gambling hubs, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Senior Vice President Raul Villanueva revealed that the intelligence community had flagged information suggesting a former PNP chief might have received bribes from Guo.
PNP Chief General Rommel Marbil, speaking at the Senate hearing on the PNP’s 2025 budget, expressed his frustration with the allegation. “We are investigating 24 of our former PNP chiefs. We are not happy with what Villanueva said. Since he made these statements under oath, he must reveal the name because it affects the entire organization. This is not just about the PNP; it impacts peace and order,” Marbil stated.
He explained that the investigation must cover all former chiefs, unless Villanueva identifies the specific individual involved.
Marbil also mentioned that the PNP has not yet received a formal report from Villanueva, who is a retired army general. “We are drafting a letter to General Raul Villanueva asking him to name names or clarify the matter in the Senate, especially since he made this claim under oath. He must tell us who is involved,” Marbil added.
Senator Robin Padilla echoed the need for clarification, emphasizing that the allegation affects the reputation of the police force.
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, on the other hand, said he had not yet discussed the matter with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “I’m not aware of anything regarding a former PNP chief. Let the current PNP chief address this issue,” Abalos said, referring to General Marbil. “I believe they are already taking action on this,” he added.
Villanueva had previously clarified that the information he shared was still unverified. “There have been discussions at the border immigration, but I don’t know the exact amount of the bribe, including any involvement of a PNP official. I just cannot confirm it yet,” Villanueva said during the hearing.
