Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 27) – The National Capital Region Police Office on Friday reminded its police force to respect human rights in enforcing the enhanced community quarantine due to COVID-19.
NCRPO chief PMGen. Debold Sinas issued the reminder after Sta. Ana police station commander Lt. Col. Reynaldo Magdaluyo was caught on video Thursday hitting and cursing residents of the Golden Mosque Compound in Quiapo, Manila.
“My instructions to my men are clear and unequivocal. That is why the stringent implementation of the policies relative to the community quarantine, due respect for the rights of our citizens must always be observed,” Sinas said in a press briefing Friday at the Kamuning Police Station.
Sinas said the viral video is “a partial scene in the whole scenario. There were lacking scenes there that did not justify what really happened.”
Sinas directed the Manila Police District, through its new chief Brig. Gen. Rolando Miranda, to conduct an investigation on the incident.
“NCRPO will never tolerate or condone any wrongdoings of our police officers and personnel in the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine or for that matter in any other police operations,” he said.
Metro Manila’s top cop also assured the full presence of his men in the field to implement quarantine protocols and to contain the spread of the disease.
Sinas added they are providing incentives to policemen during the quarantine like free stay in their quarantine facility, free supply of disinfectants, free food, and assistance for their families left in their homes.
“These were provided to encourage them not to go home after their duty. They can be at risk of the disease if they returned home,” said Sinas.
The Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine due to COVID-19 will last until April 13.
