ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities have launched an investigation into a police officer who was caught on video allegedly ignoring instructions and speeding away from a checkpoint operated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Pagadian City, an incident that has since gone viral on social media.
The officer was identified as Police Executive Master Sergeant Jason Mark P. Abenes, assigned to the Pagadian City Police Station. According to initial reports, the incident occurred at around 9:00 a.m. on February 19, 2026, along Urro Street in the city’s San Jose District. Personnel manning the LTO Region 9 checkpoint flagged down Abenes for a visible traffic violation after noticing that his motorcycle reportedly had no side mirror. Instead of stopping, authorities said the officer allegedly refused to cooperate and sped away from the checkpoint.
Following the incident, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Region 9 announced it will issue a show cause order against Abenes. The order requires the police officer to submit a sworn explanation detailing why administrative charges should not be filed against him. Among the possible violations being considered is Conduct Unbecoming of a Police Officer.
In a statement, the Philippine National Police Regional Office 9 (PRO 9) confirmed that the officer has already been identified and that an investigation is underway. The regional office stressed that the alleged act is “unacceptable” and runs counter to the institution’s core values of professionalism, accountability, and integrity.
PRO 9 spokesperson Police Major Shiela Chang said the results of the investigation will be submitted to NAPOLCOM for further evaluation. Authorities also emphasized that there will be no cover-up and that administrative — and possibly criminal — charges may be pursued if evidence warrants.
The probe is being jointly conducted by the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office and NAPOLCOM Region 9 following the widespread circulation of the video online, which drew public attention and criticism.
Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Director PCOL Bonifacio Arañas likewise reiterated that the police organization does not tolerate any violation of the law among its personnel. He underscored that discipline and professionalism remain a top priority within the ranks.
NAPOLCOM Region 9, for its part, assured the public that the case will be handled in accordance with existing laws and procedures to ensure accountability. Officials emphasized that all parties involved will be given due process as the investigation progresses.
Authorities reiterated that no member of the police force is above the law, as they seek to maintain public trust while addressing the allegations surrounding the viral incident.