PNP-HPG Considers Legal Action Against Force Multiplier Group
The Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) is preparing to file a case against a force multiplier group for alleged usurpation of authority and illegal use of official insignia. This development involves an organization known as “HPG Force Multiplier Inc. (FMI),” which reportedly acted beyond its authorized role.
Force multipliers are civic and community volunteer groups that assist the police in law enforcement tasks. However, sources noted that the PNP-HPG discovered the FMI was collecting fees from at least 500 members nationwide under the guise of the PNP’s traffic unit.
Unauthorized Fee Collection Sparks Investigation
“This goes beyond their duties as a force multiplier,” said HPG spokesperson Lt. Nadame Malang in Filipino during a briefing at Camp Crame. “We will be filing a regular case against this group.” A regular case filing initiates a formal investigation before a prosecutor or court but does not immediately detain the accused.
Officials reported the group’s actions included using uniforms and logos that closely resembled the PNP-HPG insignia. Lt. Malang explained, “They use a uniform that resembles the PNP-HPG logo. On some of these logos, ‘HPG’ is very prominent, while the ‘FMI’ at the bottom is barely visible.” This deceptive branding reportedly misled members and the public.
Suspended Registration and Legal Review Underway
Community members said that although the FMI was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), its registration has been suspended. Meanwhile, the PNP-HPG’s legal team is still formulating a position paper to determine the appropriate venue for filing the case.
The investigation began after a complaint was filed in Antique province earlier this August concerning the unauthorized fee collections. This prompted the PNP-HPG to uncover similar allegations in the Cagayan Valley and Calabarzon regions.
Longstanding Partnership Under Scrutiny
Malang added that the FMI had been working with the PNP-HPG since 2010. In response to the recent findings, HPG Director Brig. Gen. William Segun has ordered a comprehensive review of all agreements with force multiplier groups to ensure full compliance with regulations.
Efforts to reach the HPG Force Multiplier Inc. through their social media channels have not yet yielded a response, sources said. The PNP-HPG remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of its partnerships and protecting the public from unauthorized entities.
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