The aggressive arrest of an ambulant vendor by the Parañaque Task Force is deeply concerning. As seen in the video circulating online, 5 members of the of the said task force aggressively accosted the vendor, Warren Villanueva, who was holding on to his cart, which is his main utility for selling.

Using force is only necessary when there’s imminent danger and it must be commensurate to the threat being avoided. Otherwise, such brute force constitutes cruelty, degrades the person, and can cause long-term psychological harm. We welcome the swift action of Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez to suspend and file administrative cases against the concerned personnel to ensure that such abuse will not happen again.

Mayor Olivarez also said that Warren’s cart has been returned but he’s still experiencing anxiety due to the incident. We hope that immediate psychological intervention is also provided to the vendor in recognition of the harm done. For the CHR’s part, our investigation team has been dispatched to look into the incident and provide needed intervention.

Implementing the law must always account for the totality of the situation and the human condition. What is legal must also be humane. In apprehending small vendors, we hope that their dire situation is given due consideration and viable alternative options are provided so they may continue to earn a decent living. Law enforcement must not transgress the dignity of individuals, especially the impoverished ones who most need the law’s utmost protection. ###