TAGUIG CITY — Fourteen commanders, with the ranks of police majors and police captains, assigned in five police districts in the National Capital Region Police Office, are under investigation for a pattern of lapses and violations in surprise Red Teaming Operations, the NCRPO said in a statement on Tuesday.

NCRPO Regional Director Police Major General Anthony Aberin led the intensified surprise inspections across Metro Manila as part of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) “Back to Basics” campaign.

The two-day operation, held on May 17 and 18, 2025, involved simultaneous “Red Teaming Operations” across the MPD, QCPD, EPD, SPD and NPD under the National Capital Region Security Quadrant (NEMSQ), in line with NCRPO’s Triple-A Policy Strategy and its Five Reminders initiative.

The inspections were aimed at evaluating the presence and readiness of personnel, especially in areas with high foot traffic and those frequented by foreign nationals. While many police assistance desks (PADs), outposts, and patrol units were found compliant, the operation revealed troubling lapses in several locations.

Among the violations discovered were unmanned PADs, abandoned posts, lone officers deployed in violation of standard protocols, and officers caught using cellphones—some even playing mobile games—while on duty. Some areas also lacked any visible police presence despite high public activity.

“This is unacceptable,” said Aberin.

“We must step up our crime prevention and solution efforts. I expect police commanders to be present, aware, and accountable for their men. Discipline begins at the top,” he adds.

As a result, police commanders are now under investigation for failure to supervise their personnel. Those found negligent will be relieved of their posts, subject to due process. Individual officers who were absent from their posts or caught violating operational protocols also face administrative action.

To prevent disruption in public safety efforts, Aberin ordered the immediate deployment of junior officers from mobile units to fill the gaps. He reiterated that visibility patrols must remain consistent and professional.

“These inspections are not isolated incidents. They will become part of our standard operating procedure. We are establishing a culture of discipline, visibility, and accountability,” said Aberin.

“Let this serve as a warning and an example—complacency and failure of supervision will be met with the heaviest penalties. Accountability must be absolute,” he added.

The NCRPO said the two-day Red Teaming Operation sets a new benchmark for internal monitoring and underscores its commitment to restoring public trust, strengthening operational integrity, and ensuring efficient law enforcement across the nation’s capital.