Deep controversy recently emerged within the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) following a controversial raid in Makati. Led by PNP-ACG Director PBGen. Sidney Hernia, a decision was made to remove PCapt. Michelle Sabino, the agency’s spokesperson, in connection with the said raid.
In the initial report, Capt. Sabino was temporarily reassigned to the headquarters of PNP-ACG to perform administrative duties. This decision stemmed from the loud controversy that erupted after the raid on an online lending company in Makati City, during which the vlogger Rendon Labador was present.
In Labador’s Facebook live stream, many claimed that he seemed to portray the employees of the online lending company as guilty of harassing those who couldn’t repay their debts. This live stream made the operation highly controversial, especially among the families of those involved in the raid.
This raid was conducted as part of a campaign against illegal online lending activities, which have had a widespread impact on the citizens. However, in Labador’s Facebook live stream, his admonitions appeared forceful, as if he intended to highlight the authorities’ abuse towards the employees of the lending company.
The controversy didn’t end there. In his live video, Labador also attempted to capture the faces of some employees while the police were conducting their investigation, further escalating the tension of the situation. Labador’s reactions to these events, where his concern and agitation were visible on his face, were also shown.
Following this controversial raid, PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. promptly initiated an investigation into the incident. Gen. Acorda expressed his concerns about the events that transpired during the raid and the behavior of some police officers who were present.
The removal of Capt. Michelle Sabino from her role as the spokesperson of PNP-ACG is part of the steps taken by the PNP to address the controversy and ensure that their personnel adhere to the correct procedures and protocols in their operations.
Ultimately, this signifies the PNP’s commitment to maintaining integrity and transparency in their operations while respecting the rights of the citizens. In the face of controversial incidents, these actions demonstrate the PNP’s determination to hold individuals accountable for any wrongdoing in their actions and to strengthen public trust in their service.