MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it will coordinate with the Office of the Ombudsman to identify those responsible for the online leak of sensitive personal information involving its field investigators, as authorities move to pursue possible charges over the incident.

The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has been directed to conduct a full investigation into the breach to determine accountability and prepare cases against those involved.

“As an agency that is also involved in investigation and intelligence-gathering, we understand how serious this case is since this involves the safety of the concerned individuals,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement.

“We will look into this case with urgency and with a commitment to run after all those involved.”

The Ombudsman earlier condemned the online disclosure of the identities of its investigators, saying it appeared aimed at intimidating personnel and putting them at risk. It described the incident as a direct attack on the security of public servants.

Nartatez said the probe will also look into the possibility of internal involvement within the Ombudsman as part of the cyber investigation.

He added that those found responsible may be charged under the Data Privacy Act and the Anti-Cybercrime Prevention Act.

“I assure that appropriate charges will be filed against individuals behind this leak of information. The PNP also assures all government officials and employees that the police force is ready to protect them against all kinds of threats to their security,” Nartatez said. (PNA)