The Philippine National Police in Bais City and Manjuyod town were reportedly harassed by some troopers of the 61st Infantry Battalion due to an incident on Dec. 26, 2005.

On board their 6 x 6 truck, army troopers in full battle gear allegedly barged into the police station Sunday looking for the police officers who flagged them down while they were conducting a checkpoint on that day, the anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New Army.

Initial investigations showed that the army men were offended when they were flagged down.

The Bais City and Manjuyod police stations were conducting checkpoints on that day as a preemptive measure, while the CPP/NPA was celebrating its anniversary.

Reports said the army men were in civilian clothes, but fully armed, and were coming from the north on that day. Reports also said that a certain 2nd Lt. Moy, who claimed to be a member of the 61st IB, led the group.

While outside the police station, the other army troopers mounted an M-60 machinegun.

PNP provincial director, Sr. Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe, said he has directed Manjuyod police station commander S/Insp. Roy Abella to submit a written report on the incident.

Meanwhile, residents of Manjuyod as well as those of Bais City were alarmed and expressed fears of an encounter between the police and the army.

They said it is disappointing to note that the army had to quarrel with the police over petty things when they are faced with pressing problems, including the rebel activity in the hinterland barangays.

Reports also had it that the army did not coordinate with the police in their mission while they were in the area of police jurisdiction.*JG

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