The Philippine National Police (PNP) has clarified that President Rodrigo Duterte’s “shoot-to-kill” order is merely an assertion to maintain peace and order in the Philippines amid the COVID-19 crisis.
The order has been issued after the President expressed dismay over the meddling of leftist groups in the government’s affairs against COVID-19.
According to PNP Spokesperson Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac, the police will stay true in implementing the laws of the country.
“Wala pong shoot to kill na mangyayari. Ang lahat po ay dadaan sa proseso ng mga pinapairal na mga batas natin. We continue to uphold the rule of law at ang respect sa human rights. (No shoot-to-kill will ever happen. Everything will go through due process according to our laws. We continue to uphold the rule of law and respect human rights).”
The PNP has also bolstered police visibility in barangays and communities to prevent crimes. The police is prepared to respond to those who take advantage of the country’s emergency situation. – Report from Bea Bernardo
