QC Council probes councilor over LTO confrontation during INC rally

A police officer was relieved from duty following allegations that he failed to protect a motorcyclist during an Iglesia ni Cristo (INC)-led rally in Quezon City earlier this week. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions as the rally, which began with an unscheduled protest near the People Power Monument, disrupted traffic along key roads including White Plains Avenue and Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA). The officer, stationed with the Quezon City Police District Mobile Force Battalion (QCPD MFB), was placed under the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (PHAS) pending further investigation. According to a press briefing held at Camp Crame on Friday, Philippine National Police (PNP) public information chief Col. Allen Rae Co stated that the officer had been removed from active duty. PHAS serves as a temporary holding unit for officers who have been relieved from their posts or are awaiting new assignments. Co emphasized that the action did not affect the ongoing investigation into the incident. “He’s now placed under PHAS. That doesn’t have any bearing on the investigation. It’s for us to have quick access to him while the investigation is ongoing,” Co explained. The decision followed the circulation of a video online, which purportedly showed the officer failing to act when a motorcyclist alleged that rally participants had taken his keys, shouted at him, and made threats. While the video sparked public outrage, Co noted that the officer had attempted to de-escalate the situation. “We would like to review everything that happened and all the circumstances regarding the incident. The QCPD has already been directed to talk to all parties concerned,” he added. Sen. Raffy Tulfo publicly criticized the officer, suggesting that he should undergo retraining. However, Co acknowledged the senator’s concerns and stated that the PNP would consider retraining if deemed necessary. “Regarding the statement of the good Senator Tulfo, we respect and we acknowledge his concern for the Philippine National Police. We will surely take into consideration his recommendation for retraining if warranted,” Co said. The INC rally initially began with an unscheduled protest-action near the People Power Monument in Quezon City on Tuesday. This led to significant traffic disruptions along White Plains Avenue and EDSA. As the day progressed, the demonstration moved to the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on Thursday, where it eventually concluded. Traffic conditions improved slightly on Wednesday morning, with three northbound lanes reopening on EDSA after a bus carrying rally participants was relocated to White Plains Avenue. The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing large gatherings, particularly when such events intersect with daily urban mobility. The PNP has reiterated its commitment to transparency and thoroughness in investigating the matter. Further details are expected as the investigation unfolds, with the QCPD tasked with engaging all relevant parties to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events.