Ombudsman Remulla Suspends Senate Security Chief Aplasca Amid Controversial Senate Shooting

Ombudsman Remulla Suspends Senate Security Chief Aplasca Amid Controversial Senate Shooting

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | May 15, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has ordered the immediate six-month preventive suspension of acting Senate Sergeant-at-Arms, retired Police Major General Mao Aplasca. The suspension follows a contentious shooting incident within Senate premises on May 13.

Announced by Ombudsman Remulla in a Friday press conference, the suspension facilitates “a thorough and unobstructed inquiry into the incident.” Remulla emphasized the need to “get to the bottom of this,” signaling a significant step in the ongoing investigation.

The action against Aplasca comes amid public scrutiny, particularly regarding why he is the immediate focus of the Ombudsman’s inquiry while NBI Director Melvin Maribago’s involvement appears to be under separate review.

Aplasca admitted Thursday to firing the initial warning shot during the altercation involving National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) personnel. Remulla condemned this, stating, “He was the first to fire. To fire upon law enforcement? We do not tolerate that.”

The Ombudsman further underscored the gravity of the situation, questioning Aplasca’s authority: “What right did he have to do that? Who is he?” Remulla added, “It’s worrisome. We cannot let this go unpunished, and we cannot ignore something of this magnitude.”

The incident has garnered significant attention, notably occurring just hours before Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, facing an International Criminal Court warrant, departed the Senate building.

While Remulla confirmed the suspension order’s dispatch to the Senate, he noted he has not yet personally conferred with Aplasca. The Ombudsman’s decisive action signals a strong commitment to accountability and a comprehensive investigation into the events that unfolded within the nation’s legislature.