Bohol Police Reassigns Tagbilaran Chief Amid Probe into Viral Kidnapping Video
The Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) has clarified that the reassignment of the chief of the Tagbilaran City Police Station is not an indication of guilt but rather a procedural step in an ongoing investigation. This move is linked to a viral social media video from March 11, 2026, which showed a man being forced into a white vehicle outside the Dao Terminal.
Leadership Shift to Ensure Impartiality
On March 16, 2026, Police Lieutenant Colonel John Kareen Escober was officially relieved from his duties. Police Lieutenant Colonel Judy Mar Bonilla, the Deputy Provincial Director for Administration at BPPO, has taken over as Officer-in-Charge. According to Police Colonel Patricio Degay Jr., Provincial Director of the Bohol PNP, this action was taken to eliminate any perception of influence or bias in the investigation process.
"By shifting leadership during the probe, we remove any perception of influence, allowing internal investigators to work with full independence and transparency," stated Degay. He emphasized that the reassignment aims to maintain public trust and ensure a thorough, unbiased inquiry into the incident.
Official Statements and Public Reassurance
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap had previously announced that Escober's removal was a decision made by higher authorities at the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, not her personal choice. This underscores the institutional nature of the move, aligning with standard police protocols during sensitive investigations.
Despite the alarm caused by the viral video, police authorities revealed that, as of now, no formal complaint has been filed by the family of the man allegedly abducted by three individuals. The Bohol PNP has pledged to keep the investigation transparent to provide clarity to the public and uphold confidence in law enforcement.
The ongoing probe continues as authorities work to gather more evidence and statements related to the incident, with updates expected to be shared publicly to address community concerns.
