PNP seeks closer collaboration with CHR

The Philippine National Police is set to partner with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to help better safeguard civil liberties during police operations, according to PNP spokesperson.

In an interview, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said the PNP and CHR may soon formalize their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening coordination and cooperation between the two agencies. She also shared that the PNP chief plans to personally visit the CHR, saying, "The chief PNP will visit the Commission on Human Rights. He is going to explain himself because there was a negative interpretation about his recent statement."

PNP Directorate for Operations chief Maj. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo Torre clarified that his earlier statement was not meant to spark a rivalry, but to promote greater discipline, efficiency, and adherence to the law among police officers. As part of the partnership, the PNP noted that CHR representatives are welcome to join police operations to observe and assess any possible human rights violations committed during arrests. However, Fajardo acknowledged that Torre's statement was apparently interpreted negatively by the CHR.

Torre also underscored that officers conducting warrantless arrests are required to strictly comply with legal procedures and ensure that valid grounds exist. Fajardo added that the partnership with the CHR will have nationwide coverage, as the commission maintains regional field offices throughout the country.

Last June 5, Torre told reporters that arrest figures would serve as a "metric" rather than a fixed quota. He emphasized that there would be no required number of arrests and reminded officers to always follow legal procedures.