The Commission on Human Rights is deeply bothered by the arestoaguinaldo Christmas prank of PNP in Cebu City, which started last 15 December 2020, and a similar prank done by the Land Transportation Office last 13 December 2020. Serving an arrest warrant is a law enforcement process that must be carried out within the rigors of due process and in the name of rule of law. Such process should not be trifled with nor diminished into a prank for it impacts fundamental rights and law enforcement is no laughing matter.

Given the authority and power bestowed unto uniformed personnel and the serious implications of an arrest, such prank may also cause distress and humiliation to target individuals. In the context of prevalent red-tagging, the unresolved “nanlaban” cases in the anti-drug campaign, and various arrests made in the implementation of quarantine rules, such prank may also heighten the worry of individuals who may have developed mistrust toward law enforcers. This may also further stressed out individuals who may be enduring anxiety due to the ongoing pandemic and the challenging economic situation.

While we recognize the intention to bring cheer to citizens, using police power to showcase generosity and compassion is an unnecessary display of power. We call for the leadership of PNP to take due action and for the local PNP to implement a more sensitive approach during the yuletide season.