Mangusin Faces Legal Trouble Over Unlicensed Security, Firearm
The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has confirmed that social media personality Norman Mangusin, better known as Francis Leo Marcos, employs nine unlicensed security escorts and possesses an expired Glock pistol now classified as a loose firearm, deepening the legal troubles of the controversial vlogger who was arrested earlier this month in Metro Manila.
In a statement, NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson Rafael Vicente Calinisan said the agency had received official confirmation from the Philippine National Police Civil Security Group that all nine of Mangusin’s so-called security personnel were operating without licenses.
“Received confirmation from the PNP Civil Security Group that all nine of Mangusin’s ‘security’ escorts… are NOT licensed security practitioners… performing security functions for Mangusin illegally,” Calinisan said.
The commission also disclosed that a Glock pistol registered under the name “Francis Leo Antonio Marcos” expired in September 2017. Authorities now consider the weapon a loose firearm.
“It expired last September 2017, and is therefore a loose firearm, and continuing to keep it constitutes the crime of unlawful possession of firearm,” Calinisan added.
Arrest in Pasay and Transfer to Parañaque Jail
Mangusin was arrested on February 10, 2026, at a hotel in Pasay City by operatives from the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). The arrest stemmed from a warrant issued by the Parañaque City Regional Trial Court Branch 294 for unjust vexation, with recommended bail set at PHP 120,000.
Following his detention at Camp Crame in Quezon City, he was transferred to the Parañaque City jail in compliance with court orders.
The case marks the latest development in a series of investigations involving the vlogger, who built a substantial online following by portraying a lifestyle of wealth and influence.
Uniform Controversy and Criminal Exposure
Authorities are also investigating Mangusin for the alleged illegal use of police uniforms, which may constitute a violation of Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, covering the unlawful use of uniforms, insignias and badges.
The controversy erupted after a social media account posted an image purportedly showing Mangusin in a police general’s uniform. The post claimed the attire had been lent by a senior police official.
Calinisan issued a sharp rebuke.
“We previously issued a strong [warning] that the uniform is, and never be, utilized as a costume… Mangusin has chosen to disregard that warning, opting instead to ridicule the police uniform,” he said.
Mangusin denied the accusation in an online video, claiming the image had been digitally manipulated.
“If you’re going to edit a photo, at least do it properly. Why am I a full-fledged colonel in one image and a general in another? Ridiculous!” he said.
He also criticized the manner of his arrest, saying: “This is just a case of unjust vexation yet I suffered humiliation nationwide through the national TV.”
Multiple Identities Under Review
Beyond the firearm and security issues, authorities are examining allegations that Mangusin has used multiple names and identity documents, including passports and birth certificates. The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Statistics Authority are among the agencies coordinating with police.
The Land Transportation Office has also revoked his driving privileges following reported road safety violations involving a sport utility vehicle.
Public Safety and Institutional Trust at Stake
While the case centers on a high-profile online personality, regulators argue that its implications extend far beyond one individual.
Unlicensed armed escorts operating in busy urban centres like Pasay and Quezon City raise clear public safety concerns. Firearms without valid registration, authorities say, undermine national efforts to account for weapons circulation. And the unauthorized use of police uniforms risks eroding hard-won public trust in law enforcement institutions.
Calinisan signaled a broader crackdown.
“We will put a stop to Mangusin and all his fraudulent schemes. We will not allow any Filipino to be victimized by Mangusin ever again,” he said.
What Comes Next
NAPOLCOM said it would coordinate with the CIDG for the filing of appropriate charges related to the alleged illegal security operations and unlawful possession of a firearm.
As investigations continue, the case has become a study in how online personas can collide with offline regulation. Behind the viral videos and curated images lies a tightening legal net — one that authorities say is guided not by celebrity, but by compliance with the law.
For now, Mangusin remains detained as proceedings move forward, facing a widening list of potential criminal liabilities that extend well beyond the original unjust vexation charge.
