PHILIPPINE National Police chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday maintained that the criminal cases filed by his men against Vice President Sara Duterte and others are not politically-motivated but merely an exercise of the PNP’s constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law.

“The PNP remains committed to its mandate to enforce the law without fear or favor. The filing of cases against any individual, regardless of status or political affiliation, is a reflection of our duty to the Constitution and the Filipino people,” the top cop said in a statement.

At the same time, he also expressed a pointed reflection on the role of law enforcement, underscoring that inaction could lead to public distrust.

“If we do not file cases against those accused, what will people say? Takot ang pulis, pangmahirap lang ang pangil ng batas. We cannot allow such perceptions to take root. Our duty is to apply the law to everyone, regardless of their standing, because justice is not selective,” he explained.

The PNP chief also highlighted the lessons they have learned from the past.

“We have seen how inaction, or selective application of the law, undermines public trust—like the ‘tokhang’ criticisms of the previous administration, where victims were perceived to be predominantly from the poor. We refuse to let history repeat itself. The PNP is committed to protecting all sectors of society without bias or prejudice,” he underscored.

Last Wednesday, the Quezon City Police District filed criminal charges for direct assault, disobedience to authority and grave coercion against VP Duterte, Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group chief, Colonel Raymond Lachica and two “John Does” in the aftermath of their confrontation with policemen who were following orders to transfer the latter’s chief of staff Attorney Zuleika Lopez from the House of Representatives to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center.

Gen. Marbil reaffirmed the PNP’s oath to safeguard the rights of all citizens while ensuring that justice is served fairly.

“Our laws must be observed, obeyed, and upheld. This is our sworn duty as law enforcers. It is not about politics, but about ensuring accountability under the legal framework we all agreed to as a democratic society,” he said.

He also assured the public that legal mechanisms are in place to ensure fairness and due process, stressing that everyone is entitled to defend themselves through these avenues, as guaranteed by the Constitution.

Quoting the legal principle “Dura lex, sed lex” — the law may be harsh, but it is the law — Gen. Marbil underscored the PNP’s impartiality.

“It is this principle that guides us in our work. As law enforcers, we cannot choose whom to apply the law to or make exceptions based on affiliations or relationships. Our mandate is to protect and serve all people equally, without prejudice or discrimination,” he noted.

The PNP chief assured the public that the police organization remains committed to performing its duties with integrity, impartiality, and respect for human rights. He called for the public’s trust and cooperation in ensuring that justice and the rule of law prevail in the country.

“Let us all remember that the rule of law is the foundation of a just and peaceful society. As the guardians of public safety, we remain committed to this principle for the benefit of the Filipino people,” he said.

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Alfred P. Dalizon