Cops alerted for possible rallies as ICC sets to start legal proceedings vs ex-president Duterte
Police units in Metro Manila and other urban areas in the provinces were alerted for possible conduct of protest actions in relation to the proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings involving former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte is facing crimes against humanity and is currently detained at the Hague in the Netherlands. He will undergo a pre-trial “confirmation of charges” hearing at the ICC beginning on Monday, Feb. 23.
The four-day session will decide whether there is enough evidence to move forward with a trial and on the part of the Philippine National Police (PNP), it wants a peaceful and orderly conduct of any activity in the country relation to the ICC hearing.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said they currently monitoring potential mass gatherings to ensure that public order remains undisturbed.
“Our security measures are in place and it is intended to ensure the peaceful conduct of any activity in public places. Regardless of the affiliation of the groups, our personnel will be there to protect their rights and maintain peace and order,” said Nartatez.
He said concerned police commanders were already instructed to prepare for personnel deployment, including medical emergency responders are on standby for potential rallies.
While respecting the rights of citizens to express their views, Nartatez said that the PNP’s priority remains public safety.
“Maximum tolerance will be strictly observed, but the law will be upheld. Our personnel are instructed to remain professional and avoid any confrontation,” said Nartatez.
He also called for sobriety from both the critics and supporters of former president Duterte.