In its report Friday, 10th Infantry Division based in Mawab, Davao de Oro identified the arrested suspect as Kristoffer Niño Somoza Mudlong, 30, a resident of Tondo, Manila.
Investigation revealed the suspect introduced himself as Colonel Daniel Dave Pascual Mendoza and a Military Physician under Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom).
Mudlong wore the Philippine Army Pattern (Philarpat) uniform when he was arrested by elements of 66th Infantry Battalion and Maragusan Police Station, the report said.
According to Tito the suspect allegedly promised to facilitate applications to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in exchange for money.
“Ang ginagawa nya ay nag-rerecruit ng mga gustong mag Army, tapos maghihingi siya ng PERA para e-process nya ang application. Accordingly, para mas mabilis ang process ng pag-apply, “ Tito said when asked what was the reason why the former identified himself as a soldier.
Tito said they are also tracing reports from members of Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) that Mudlong who also introduced himself as military surgeon was also collecting money from them for their medical requirements.
“Sa CAA binibiktima nya rin, nagpapakilala siya na Army surgeon para sa kanya na ibayad ang pang-medical. Hindi na sila mahirapan,” Tito added.
He said investigation is now on going as to the veracity of the complaints against the suspect.
Tito, meanwhile said, under the law, offenders can be prosecuted for violations of Article 177 (Usurpation of Authority) of the Revised Penal Code for falsely representing themselves as members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Article 179 (Illegal Use of Uniforms or Insignia), for wearing the Philippine Army uniform.
Major General Nolasco A. Mempin, commander of 10th ID said that the command will not tolerate this matter lightly, as he warned the public not to be fooled by posers.
“Your Philippine Army is a highly disciplined organization, and these criminals could affect the positive image of your Army if tolerated," Mempin added.
Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 director Benjamin Silo Jr., for his part said that pretending to be a person of authority is not only a crime but a disrespect to all men in the service who sacrifice a lot to get the privilege of wearing the uniform.”
Photo from 10th ID
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