The Philippine National Police (PNP) has vowed anew to advance the cause of human rights especially in the conduct of its operations, with its top official saying that the commitment to human rights is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. made the statement during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) which would pave the way for more training, awareness and proactive measures to safeguard and promote human rights in the conduct of all police operations.
“The collaboration between the PNP and the CHR is more than just a formal agreement. It represents a sharedvision, coordination for justice, fairness and respect for human
rights are the foundation of our governance,” said Acorda.
“This MOU reflects our joint commitment to fostering a culture of accountability, transparency and compassion within our ranks and in all our interactions with the public. This collaboration symbolizes a collective promise touphold the principles engraved in the universal declaration of human rights and our national laws,” he added.
Acorda’s statement was a 180-degree turn from the position held by a few of its predecessors and other ranking police officials who even went to the extent of publicly attacking the CHR, especially at the height of the drug war.
At that time, the CHR has been raising concerns over reports of human rights abuses and extra-judicial killings allegedly committed by some policemen who were running after street-level drug peddlers and users.
In his speech during the ceremony, Acorda even emphasized the importance of the existence of the CHR: “The CHR is an institution which has empathy and dedication to every individual in our country.”
Acorda’s position on the importance of human rights appeared to reflect the stand of the administration of President Marcos on how to handle plice operations, especially the campaign against illegal drugs.
Retired police general Rodolfo Azurin, Jr., Marcos’ first PNP chief, has openly expressed his stand for a less bloody drug war and his belief that everybody, including drug users and pushers, deserve a second chance.
Acorda also explained that his position on the importance of protecting the rights of every individual is part of his five-focused agenda.
“If you will take note of one of my focus agenda, it is aggressive and honest law enforcement operations. While we are doing it aggressively, I want it to be honest and when it is honest, it also entails the word or the phrase following the rule of law,” said Acorda.
As agents of the law, Acorda said all members of the PNP should adhere to the principles of the rule of law since failing to do so would only turn the Philippines to a failed state.
“So with that as we sign this MOA, may this activity be a semblance of our willingness and full support toupholding the rule of law especially on human rights and I think that is one way of preventing this country from becoming a failed state,” said Acorda.