The viral CCTV footage showing the alleged mauling of drug suspects by policemen is another addition to the growing reports of torture and brutality involving the police force. The Commission reiterates its strong condemnation to this brazen abuse of authority. The incident further perpetuates doubts and questions surrounding the campaign against illegal drugs and criminality. The mauling happened to be caught on camera thus it is brought to public attention and appropriate charges have been filed. But we hope that this is not a prevalent practice especially in detention cells or confined spaces where there are no camera nor witnesses.

We remind again the police that respect for human dignity must be observed under any circumstance. The PNP operations manual provides the procedures that ensure that rights of suspects as well as detainees are respected and these must be followed at all times. There is no excuse to circumvent the duty to respect and protect human rights especially by the very state agents that are mandated to protect and serve the people.

As we are investigating this case, we are requesting once more the cooperation of the PNP. Denying us access to blotter goes against the principle of transparency for it is a public document. Those involved must face the full force of the law and preventive measures must be done to ensure no repetition. ###