TACLOBAN CITY — A police officer’s alleged discharge of his issued firearm to signal the start of a boat race during the Bugsayan-Bankaton Festival in Northern Samar on August 20 has gone viral, prompting swift action from police authorities.
Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy, director of Police Regional Office 8, confirmed on Monday, August 25, the relief of the Lavezares Municipal Police Station chief in connection with the incident.
Following an internal investigation, Col. Sonny Omenga, Northern Samar Police director, ordered the relief of the station chief and other personnel involved.
The firearm was reportedly discharged during the Motorized Banca Race held as part of the municipality’s fiesta celebration.
While no injuries were reported, the Philippine National Police reiterated that issued firearms must be used solely for legitimate police operations. (Marie Tonette Marticio)
