A police officer involved in an incident with Honeylet Avanceña, the partner of former president Rodrigo Duterte, has chosen not to file a direct assault complaint, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Friday.
PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, clarified that the decision came from the officer herself. She spoke with Special Action Force (SAF) chief, Maj. Gen. Mark Pespes, who clarified that the officer considered the incident part of the risks inherent to her duties.
“Personal decision po ng pulis na huwag na pong magsampa ng kaso at ang reason niya ay kasama ‘yun sa hazard ng kanyang trabaho,” Fajardo told reporters.
“Magpapagaling lang daw siya then back to work na raw po siya,” she added.
The officer was reportedly struck on the forehead by Avanceña, allegedly with a cellphone, while helping to clear the way for Duterte who was about to be arrested. The blow resulted in a minor injury, though the officer did not seek to pursue legal action.
Fajardo also noted that the PNP has taken responsibility for the officer’s medical expenses and will issue her a commendation for her service.