House Continues Inquiry into Alleged Illegal Arrest of Chinese Nationals by Police

MANILA — The House Committee on Public Order and Safety announced on Monday that it would extend its investigation into the alleged illegal arrest of four Chinese nationals, following a refusal from a Philippine National Police (PNP) official to cooperate with the inquiry.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision to prolong the probe came after Col. Lynette Tadeo of the PNP-Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM) declined to provide the names of dismissed police personnel. Fernandez expressed his initial desire to conclude the investigation and release the officers previously cited for contempt but found it necessary to continue due to non-compliance.

Tadeo cited concerns under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act 10173) for her refusal to submit the requested information. However, Antipolo Rep. Romeo Acop countered, highlighting the House of Representatives’ constitutional and statutory authority to demand such documents from police authorities. Acop referenced a specific provision of the Data Privacy Act that allows for the processing of sensitive personal information in legal proceedings or when required by government or public authority.

House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo warned the PNP officials of potential contempt charges if they continue to withhold information from the panel. Tulfo emphasized the seriousness of the congressional inquiry and suggested that if the PNP had reservations about the process, they could request an executive session.

Following the exchange, Tadeo assured the committee that they would comply with the request for information. The House panel has scheduled the next session of the inquiry for February 26.

The committee had previously cited Brig. Gen. Roderick Mariano, Lt. Col. Jolet T. Guevara, Col. Charilie Cabradilla, Maj. Jason D. Quijana, Maj. John Patrick Magsalos, and Staff Sergeants Roy G. Pioquinto, Mark J. Democrito, and Danilo L. Desder for contempt due to their refusal to disclose requested information.