CAMP CRAME, Quezon City — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed the development of legal measures and guidelines to address incidents where third parties obstruct law enforcers carrying out official duties.
PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. tasked the Directorate for Operations, Legal Service, and Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) to establish clearer protocols for field personnel when handling outside intervention during legitimate police activities.
“Our police officers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect while performing their lawful duties. If there are concerns about their conduct or appearance, there are proper channels to address them,” Nartatez said.
“No one should take it upon themselves to publicly humiliate or interfere with our personnel in the performance of their duties. We will protect our officers from unwarranted interference while ensuring that any legitimate complaint against them is properly investigated,” he added.
The directive follows a viral video showing former 1-Rider Party-list Representative Bonifacio Bosita confronting officers at a checkpoint. The clip, which has circulated online for about a week, drew criticism from both active and retired police officers who argued that Bosita overstepped his authority.
Nartatez instructed field commanders to remind personnel that any grievances or accountability issues involving officers must be handled through proper channels, clarifying that defending officers against harassment does not mean shielding them from genuine administrative complaints.
“We welcome legitimate criticism because accountability makes the PNP stronger but accountability must never be confused with intimidation or interference. If you see something wrong, report it to us and we will act on it,” Nartatez said.
PNP Spokesperson PCol. Allen Rae Co affirmed that the police force will explore legal action against individuals who obstruct police operations on the ground.
While maintaining that the public has the right to raise valid concerns and constructive feedback, Co noted that such actions must be pursued through appropriate legal forums while respecting the rights of the officers involved.
He also raised concerns over the online streaming of such confrontations.
“This is respecting the rights and privacy of those involved. This is just a matter of professional courtesy and responsible use of social media,” Co said.
”When we livestream it and show it, it should be done with the consent of those involved. This is respecting the rights and privacy of those involved. This is just a matter of professional courtesy and responsible use of social media,” he added.