Police Officer Faces Investigation Over Alleged Argument & Phone Grabbing Incident w/ Motorcycle
A police officer is under investigation for grabbing the mobile phone of a motorcycle rider in Naguilian, La Union after having a heated argument.
On Sunday afternoon (February 1, 2026), a police officer was involved in a tense encounter with a motorcycle rider at a dike in Barangay Ortiz, a spot often visited by motorcycle riders and couples spending time outdoors.
The rider, identified as JM Buemio, said he and others were simply resting in the area when police officers nearby suddenly started a roadside inspection. As officers approached their parked motorcycles, Buemio began recording the situation using his cellphone without announcing it, saying it was for his personal safety and privacy.
Based on the video that later circulated online, the officers questioned why Buemio was filming and asked if he was part of the media or a vlogger. The exchange became heated, with raised voices and profanity heard in the background.
After a few moments, one officer allegedly grabbed Buemio’s phone and ordered the video to be deleted before returning the device.
According to the La Union Police, the officers were conducting an operation after receiving a report about loud motorcycle mufflers, which are banned under a new local ordinance. Police officials confirmed that Buemio’s motorcycle had an illegal muffler, which was the reason a citation was being issued.
Police leaders also clarified that filming is allowed in public spaces and admitted that the situation worsened due to the behavior on both sides. The officer involved is now under investigation, and if any wrongdoing is proven, appropriate charges may be filed.
Authorities also reminded police personnel to remain calm and respectful at all times, emphasizing that patience and restraint are essential when dealing with the public.
“Palagi naman po nating sinasabi, maximum tolerance po palagi when dealing with civilians kasi public servants po ang mga pulis, kahit ganoon man ang mga insidente na sumasagot-sagot yung mga bata, kahit sino mang sibilyan, i-consider pa rin natin ang maximum tolerance,
” La Union police Acting Chief of Public Community Affairs Lt. Col. Lawrence Ganuelas said.
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