Camp B Gen Vicente P Lim – Three Pakistani nationals and a Romanian were arrested on Monday at Marine Base Gregorio Lim (MBGL) Sitio Calumpang, Brgy Sapang 1, Ternate Cavite after they reportedly destroyed the national flag in a sudden fit of rage. Calabarzon Police Regional Director PBGEN Carlito M. Gaces identified the arrested suspects as Pakistani nationals Sharoon Manzoor, 29; Shahid Manzoor, 45; Shamail Jalal, 36, of Pasig City and their Romanian companion Ioan Emil Oprescu, 35, of Taguig City. Investigators said that prior to the incident, the suspects were on their way to Puerto Azul, but apparently got upset after spending several hours in the middle of a traffic logjam. After reaching the vicinity of the Marine Base, the suspects alighted from their vehicle and for no apparent reason suddenly took the flag from the pole and took turns tearing it. This prompted a Marine soldier who was stationed at the base to call the elements of Ternate Police who subsequently arrested them. “The act of these foreign nationals is not only disrespectful but also a breach of the national symbol’s dignity. The flag, a revered representation of national identity and sovereignty of the country, deserves utmost respect from all individuals regardless of their nationality. We strongly condemn any act that undermines the values of cultural sensitivity, cooperation, and harmony between nations,” PBGEN GACES said. A case of Violation of Sec 34 (i) Paragraph (a) of RA 8491 otherwise known as An Act Prescribing The Code of the National Flag was filed against the foreign nationals. Under Section 34 of Republic Act No. 8491, it is unlawful to mutilate, deface, defile, trample on, or cast contempt any act or omission casting dishonor or ridicule upon the flag over its surface. “The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of educating individuals about the significance of national symbols and the responsibility we all bear in treating these symbols with dignity and honor. We will also be coordinating with the Bureau of Immigration for possible deportation proceedings against the four foreign nationals,” RD GACES added. (RPIO4A)(RPIO4A) Serbisyong Nagkakaisa To Serve and Protect

Authority: PBGEN CARLITO M GACES Regional Director, Police Regional Office 4A PLTCOL MARK ANTHONY R ANINGALAN C, RPIO Contact Nos. Tel: 09270220569 Website http:// www.pro4a.pnp.gov. ph/ Facebook Page: PRO4A Regional Public Information Office(margie bautista)