PRO-NIR officer sacked over viral Iloilo bottle incident

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – A 49-year-old commissioned officer from the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) was relieved from his post on Monday after a viral closed-circuit television video showed him allegedly failing to act during a bottle-throwing incident involving his companions in Barangay Punong, Lapuz, Iloilo City.

Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said the officer, who holds the rank of police lieutenant, was reassigned to the Regional Personnel Holding and Administrative Unit from the Regional Logistics and Research Development Division based in Bacolod.

Although the regional office has not yet received a formal complaint, Malong said action was taken based on the widely circulated footage, and further details are being gathered.

Malong said they learned of the incident only yesterday, prompting the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division to open a formal probe.

She added that the officer has been disarmed as a precaution while the investigation is ongoing.

The video allegedly shows three individuals taking turns throwing a bottle during what appears to be a drinking session.

It remains unclear if the officer was intoxicated, but he reportedly failed to intervene—an omission that may constitute neglect of duty.

“Upon review and verification of the incident, immediate actions were taken by the regional office to uphold accountability and reinforce their commitment to public trust and professional conduct,” PRO-NIR said in a statement.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, emphasized in a statement that the organization does not tolerate neglect or failure to perform one’s duty, especially when public safety is at risk.

“The actions of one should not overshadow the commitment of the many dedicated and courageous officers in our ranks, but accountability must always prevail,” Ibay said.

He assured the public that the matter is being addressed with urgency, transparency, and fairness.

“Let this serve as a reminder to all police personnel that the badge we wear is not just a symbol of authority, but a daily call to courage, vigilance, and responsibility,” Ibay said.

He stressed that the police force remains steadfast in its duty to serve and protect—always ready to respond when needed.