DILG chief bans presentation of suspects

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) will no longer be allowed to present arrested suspects for “photo and video opportunities” during press conferences.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas told reporters at Camp Crame yesterday that public presentation without the consent of the suspect or the suspect’s lawyer constitutes a violation of human rights.

He said this was the reason why Marsibal Abduhadi, who is accused of killing Maconacon, Isabela Mayor Erlinda Domingo, was not shown to reporters during yesterday’s press conference at Camp Crame.

“We need to balance the right of the public to know alongside the rights of the accused,” he said, adding that the new policy, which was recommended by PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima, will be formally issued to all police units tomorrow.

Roxas said he discussed the new policy with Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and the new guidelines will be finalized in consultation with the Department of Justice, the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation.

He said reporters could still interview arrested suspects if they or their lawyers would allow it. He made it clear that there would be no interviews allowed while the suspects are still under police investigation.

Roxas said suspects will only be presented to the public during inquest and other public legal proceedings.