To protect public; cleanse PNP new checkpoint guidelines

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) has released a set of guidelines intended to guide both authorities and the public at police and military checkpoints.

The guidelines were endorsed by the Department of Justice last year. The list include the following reminders:

• All checkpoints must be well-lighted, properly identified and manned by uniformed personnel.

• When approaching checkpoints, vehicles should slow down, dim the vehicles headlights and turn on cabin lights. None of the passengers are allowed to step out of the vehicle.

• All vehicle doors should be locked throughout the checkpoints because the police are only allowed to conduct visual search on the vehicle.  

• Passengers should not submit themselves to a physical or body search by checkpoint operatives, nor are they obliged to open the vehicle’s glove compartment, trunk or bags, however, passengers and drivers are still required to answer courteous routine questions asked by the police. 

• Motorists are also asked to have the presence of mind in order to assert their rights.

• As law abiding citizens, drivers are asked to keep their driver’s license and car registration within reach.

• For any complaints against the police during checkpoints, motorists should put in speed dial police emergency number where they can report their grievances in order to save others.

In an order posted on the PNP website Wednesday, PNP Chief Nicanor Bartolome reiterated strict compliance of the guidelines.

He said the guidelines were issued to promote accountability on the part of the police and to prevent policemen from being involved in illicit activities during such operations.  

“As the promotion of right-based policing becomes a focal point in the agenda of the PNP leadership, the conduct of police or law enforcement must be in compliance with human rights standard,” Bartolome said.

Cebu City Intelligence chief Romeo Santander assured the local police will strictly comply with Bartolome’s directive.

He said gone are the days when passengers of public utility jeepneys are asked to disembark for body frisking on the side of the road.

He, however, said that they will exercise the need for a thorough search if there is enough basis.

“Wala gi-specify sa order kun public or private vehicles ang apil. But we have to force them if we have basis,” Santander said.

Santander said the directive has been disseminated among the 11 police stations throughout the city, including special units of the Cebu City Police.

He likewise urged the public to report policemen involved in illicit activities during police checkpoints. — (FREEMAN)