Police have recommended criminal charges against suspended acting Senate Sergeant-at-Arms chief Mao Aplasca and two others for their role in the May 13 Senate shooting incident.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group director Maj. Gen. Robert AA Morico II announced the recommendation during a press briefing on Wednesday. He said the actions of Aplasca and his personnel violated the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 11917, which outlines a strict six-level force continuum for private security personnel.
Investigators found no actual threat or attack during the incident at the Senate building. Morico described the events as possible “panic firing,” noting that Aplasca and his men abandoned the area after discharging their firearms.
A total of 44 spent cartridges from four different firearms were recovered. Aplasca has surrendered his 9mm firearm, though investigators continue to verify if it matches footage from the scene. Police are also examining who may have provided Aplasca with incorrect information about an alleged NBI operation.