Cops arrest 3,628 for abusing women and children

June 15, 2020

The Philippine National Police- Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) on Monday said they arrested 3, 628 suspects for abuse and harassment following reports that some of their desks were unable to address such complaints during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic crisis.

Police Brigadier General Alessandro Abella, WCPD chief, reminded their lower units to exert their best efforts to investigate and assist complaints on alleged abuses during the quarantine period.

“Though our office has yet to receive formal reports about these allegations, we have already issued another directive reminding WCPD desks to exert their best efforts to investigate complaints, assist complainants to avail of remedies, and adopt measures that would allow complainants to safely report abuses during these times,” Abella said.

“All lower units of the PNP were directed to continuously undertake proactive measures to protect women and children not only from contracting COVID-19, but also against all forms of abuse, exploitation and violence in this challenging situation,” he added.

Based on their data, from March 16 to June 15, they conducted 5, 049 investigations where 3, 628 were arrested with 3, 462 inquest proceedings.

Abella said these accomplishments demonstrate their dedication to duty and professionalism.

Abella admitted that their investigators are also facing difficulties  such as suspended filing of complaints for preliminary investigation, limited and cautionary movements, initial lack of knowledge on online filing of temporary remedies before the courts, and shortage of logistics due to the closure of establishment and unavailability of public transport.

“Needless to say, we understand that these challenges are not to be made as excuses by our WCPDs to be remiss in their duties,” Abella said.

He assured the public that they will not turn a blind eye to those who have been neglectful and incompetent in their responsibilities.

“As such, we would encourage complaints who have been ignored and disregarded by WCPD investigators during lockdown period or even after, so that we could conduct investigations to look into the matter and impose disciplinary measures, if warranted,” said Abella.  Ella Dionisio/DMS