PNP mixes Martial Law talks
THE Philippine National Police leadership yesterday fully dismissed rumors of a looming martial law declaration by the government in the wake of the continuing spike on COVID-19 cases in the country.
PNP chief General Dionardo B. Carlos affirmed the categorical statement of Malacañang through presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles that there is no truth behind the martial law rumors.
“We belie this unfounded rumor as totally preposterous and intended to manipulate public opinion. This is just adding insult to injury at this critical time of global health crisis,” the top cop said.
Gen. Carlos explained that the tightened security protocol in areas under Alert Level 3 is just an offshoot of the more restrictive policies provided in the National IATF guidelines and local executive orders.
“We will always remain consistent with the requirements of human rights when conducting public safety operations in Quarantine Control Points. The police will not intervene in lawful activities that are compliant with the IATF guidelines. Just expect that there will really be police visibility purposely to monitor the observance of the minimum public health standards,” Gen. Carlos said.
The PNP chief added that as ordered by President Duterte, more policemen are now deployed in places of public convergence as well as quarantine hotels to prevent violations of minimum public health safety protocols and quarantine breach.
“As far as the PNP is concerned, there is really no compelling reason to place the country under martial law. Everything is under control. It’s a matter of constantly reminding the public of the discipline they must display whenever they’re in public places,” Gen. Carlos said.
