The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed that a senior official of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is currently under house arrest inside a military camp after being accused of sexual assault by two junior officers serving as his office assistants.
The high-ranking officer has been charged with a joint criminal complaint for rape through sexual assault and attempted rape through sexual assault filed with the prosecutor’s office.
This follows the AFP’s investigation which found prima facie evidence indicating conduct unbecoming of an officer and conduct prejudicial to good order and military discipline.
The official was immediately relieved from his post following the filing of the complaints.
According to AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, the case is currently awaiting the approval of AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who will serve as the convening authority for the General Court Martial proceedings.
The accused officer will face trial under Articles of War 96 and 97.
Col. Padilla explained that the AFP will maintain custody of the accused pursuant to Article of War 75, which allows military detention of individuals subject to military law awaiting trial or sentence, even if a civilian court also holds jurisdiction.
Nevertheless, the AFP assured full cooperation should a civilian court issue a warrant of arrest, commitment order, or any other legal directive against the PAF officer.
The court martial proceedings are expected to be completed within six months, though this may be extended depending on the case’s complexity, witness availability, and motions from involved parties.