Press Release
October 20, 2016

On the violent dispersal of protesters at the US embassy
Statement of Senator Risa Hontiveros

The actions of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in yesterday's rally at the US embassy were extremely reprehensible, unacceptable and indefensible. The police force's complete disregard for human rights, particularly the right to life and peaceful assembly, adds to the growing climate of fear and impunity in the country.

I call on PNP Chief Rolando Dela Rosa to immediately punish all those police personnel responsible for the violent incident. While an investigation is necessary and welcome, I believe that there are already compelling evidences, such as the video of a police van driven by a policeman ploughing through unarmed protesters, to merit the filing of administrative and criminal charges. I expect that the PNP top brass will enforce the law to the fullest and swiftly exact accountability..

I also call on President Rodrigo Duterte, being the Commander-in-Chief, to ensure professionalism and discipline in the police force. The PNP must act responsibly and judiciously in accordance with existing laws and the principles of human rights. The President cannot possibly convince the public that the country is safer now if our very own police force cannot respect human rights and civil liberties.

News Latest News Feed