‘Baguio dinner’ photos taken in February — PNP chief

MANILA, Philippines — Photos of a supposed party for Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa in Baguio City last week were taken during an event held in February.

“That was a dinner for the chief PNP in Manila last February,” Gamboa told The STAR, saying it was held shortly after he assumed his post.

The PNP chief noted that no one in the photos circulating online was shown wearing a face mask.

Photos of the alleged retirement party were supposedly taken at a Navy base in Baguio City.

Another source said the event occurred on Feb. 20 in North Forbes Park in Makati City.

Social media posts claimed a party for Gamboa was held while quarantine measures are being enforced to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease. The event was reportedly hosted by police officials and featured live band performances.

“There was no live band and no concert during that dinner,” Gamboa said.

The PNP chief said the source of the photos should apologize for misleading the public.

Critics called the supposed event a mañanita, an allusion to the controversial birthday celebration of National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas last May.