Two foreign nationals were arrested in Pasay City for allegedly attempting to bribe police officers during an anti-carnapping operation, the Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) said.
The suspects, a 41-year-old Chinese national and a 31-year-old Malaysian national, were apprehended at around 10:45 p.m. on April 16 by personnel of the Southern District Highway Patrol Team (SDHPT) for violation of Article 212 of the Revised Penal Code, or corruption of public officials.
The arrest stemmed from an earlier operation at about 4:00 p.m. along Roxas Boulevard, where HPG operatives flagged down a van using an unauthorized or improvised plate. The vehicle was impounded after inspection.
During subsequent proceedings, the suspects allegedly offered ₱200,000 to the arresting officers in exchange for the vehicle’s release, leading to their arrest in flagrante delicto for bribery.
The suspects, along with the impounded vehicle, are now under SDHPT custody for documentation and further investigation. Authorities are preparing the filing of appropriate charges.
PNP-HPG Acting Director PBGen. Rommel Batangan reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption.
“The PNP-HPG maintains a strict stance against any form of bribery or corruption. Our personnel remain committed to upholding the law with integrity and professionalism at all times,” he said.
The PNP-HPG also urged the public to report bribery and other unlawful activities, reaffirming its commitment to road safety and law enforcement.