BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte — An off-duty police officer was arrested after he allegedly assaulted a former barangay councilor and businessman, threatening him with his issued service firearm during an alcohol-fueled altercation early Saturday morning, July 11, in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
According to a press statement released by the Buenavista Municipal Police Station (MPS), the incident occurred at approximately 1:45 a.m. in Purok 2, Barangay Matabao, prompting police officers to immediately respond to reports of a commotion.
The victim was identified as Ronald Tabañag Gonzaga, 54, a businessman and former barangay councilor from Buenavista. He sustained multiple facial injuries after allegedly being repeatedly punched by the suspect during the confrontation.
The suspect was identified as Police Corporal Gwendolene Sagario Gabas, 39, who is assigned to the Nasipit Municipal Police Station. Although off-duty at the time of the incident, Gabas was allegedly carrying his government-issued Glock 17 Gen 4, 9mm pistol.
Altercation Allegedly Triggered by Personal Dispute
Police investigation revealed that both the victim and the suspect had been drinking separately before the incident.
Investigators said Gonzaga was initially drinking with friends at the residence of Police Senior Master Sergeant Nalam in Barangay 3, Buenavista. The group later proceeded to the Road Side Park Bar and Restaurant in Barangay Matabao to continue their gathering. However, upon arriving, they discovered that the establishment had already closed, prompting them to continue drinking outside the premises.
During the gathering, Gonzaga reportedly noticed his former girlfriend, who is now allegedly in a relationship with Gabas.
Authorities said the encounter sparked a confrontation between the two men, which quickly escalated into a heated argument.
Police said Gabas allegedly drew his issued service firearm and pointed it at Gonzaga while repeatedly punching him in the face, causing visible injuries.
Swift Police Response
Responding officers led by PCMS Laureano, under the supervision of Police Major Joel D. Cabanes, Acting Chief of Police of Buenavista MPS, immediately proceeded to the scene after receiving reports of the disturbance.
Witnesses provided information that enabled authorities to locate the suspect shortly after the incident.
Police confiscated Gabas’ issued firearm along with its ammunition before placing him under arrest. He was informed of his constitutional rights under the Miranda Doctrine and was brought to the Buenavista Municipal Police Station for documentation and custodial procedures.
Authorities confirmed that the appropriate criminal complaints for physical injuries and grave threats, among other possible charges, are being prepared for filing before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor.
PNP Vows Accountability
In its official statement, the Buenavista Municipal Police Station emphasized that the Philippine National Police remains committed to enforcing the law impartially, regardless of the rank or position of those involved.
“The PNP reiterates that no one is above the law. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the impartial enforcement of justice,” the police statement read.
The station likewise assured the public that the investigation will be conducted fairly while respecting the legal rights of both the complainant and the respondent.
Authorities have yet to announce whether administrative proceedings will also be initiated against the police officer pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.