Manila – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has enforced a six-month suspension on its Internal Affairs Service (IAS) Chief, Inspector General Alfegar Triambulo, following a sexual harassment charge. The suspension, imposed by the Office of the Ombudsman, began on December 1, 2023, and will extend until February 14, 2024, as detailed in an order released by the PNP’s Directorate for Personnel and Records Management on Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, with Triambulo’s impending retirement on February 15, 2024, the remaining days of the suspension from February 15 to May 30 will be converted into a fine. This fine is set to be deducted from Triambulo’s retirement benefits, accrued leave credits, or other receivables from the PNP. Triambulo faced allegations of sexual harassment and violation of the Safe Spaces Act, filed by IAS employee Genevieve Lipana on September 5, 2022. Lipana’s complaint included accusations of Triambulo transferring her to unrelated units, making inappropriate comments, and extending offers beyond the scope of professional conduct.
Ombudsman Samuel Martires, in an order dated November 21, found Triambulo guilty of grave misconduct and gross incompetence administratively. However, the criminal aspect of the complaint, which involved allegations of falsification of public documents, was dismissed. The IAS functions as the PNP’s institutional watchdog, responsible for disciplining, monitoring, investigating, and adjudicating administrative cases against PNP personnel.