A police officer facing multiple charges over his social media posts related to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) case against former president Rodrigo Duterte will undergo a neuropsychiatric examination, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Tuesday.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said Pat. Francis Steve Fontillas is facing administrative complaints, including grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.
He is also facing a criminal case for inciting to sedition, filed before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.
“He will undergo a neuropsychiatric examination to assess his current mental state,” Fajardo stated during a virtual press briefing.
Fontillas allegedly made social media posts threatening the government, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), and the ICC after Duterte’s arrest on March 11.
In addition to his controversial online remarks, Fajardo revealed that Fontillas had been absent without official leave (AWOL) from March 6 to 19. He returned to duty at the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on March 20 and was placed under restrictive custody.
The officer reportedly has a history of erratic behavior, including a short temper and mood swings, and was prescribed medication in 2023.
“We will allow the PNP Health Service to conduct the necessary evaluation and assessment to determine whether this officer is still mentally fit to continue serving in the police force,” Fajardo added.