NCRPO orders Taguig police chief to clarify implementation of quarantine

June 7, 2020

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Sunday directed Taguig City's chief of police to coordinate with the local government unit after a mother living in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) complained that cops were harassing them for bringing their children outside after months of staying inside their residence due to the enhanced community quarantine.

“I am saddened to hear about a post in Facebook of one foreigner and resident in BGC regarding an incident last June 3, 2020 involving patrolling policewomen in Burgos Circle, BGC in Taguig City,” said NCRPO chief Major General Debold Sinas said in a statement.

“I directed the chief of police of Taguig to coordinate with the local government unit to clarify the implementation of their guidelines allowing persons 20 years old and below and senior citizens to go outside for the purpose of exercise in accordance with IATF Resolution No. 38 Section 4(13),” Sinas said.

According to the initial investigation, policewomen were sent there following a report about rampant general community violations in the area.

“Taguig social distancing patrollers were dispatched after a pre-deployment briefing reminding them of their duties and observance of due courtesy to the public,” he said.

Upon arrival of the female cops, they saw a woman with her children conversing with another couple disregarding social distancing protocol.

The woman's toddler was not wearing a face mask. When the police officers were about to remind her, she merely ignored their presence and walked away, the report said.

“In consideration of the welfare of the minor children, the policewomen followed them to caution them as the toddler, still, was not wearing a face mask, but instead, the resident argued with them,” Sinas narrated.

“At the time, she was told that she will be arrested for such violations. She replied that they will comply and just go home,” he added.

Sinas said the cops thought the mother heeded to their request and continued patrolling the area on their vehicle.

However, as they passed in front of an establishment, the cops saw the woman again engaged in a conversation with another couple without observing social distancing. When they noticed the patrol car, they hurriedly went inside the establishment.

The mothers claimed the policewomen were shouting at them, saying they are violating quarantine protocols. According to the policewomen, outdoor non-contact sports and other forms of exercise are allowed for aged 21 and below and even to seniors.

“In relation to the said incident, I have ordered an in-depth investigation to be conducted. Rest assured that NCRPO will not tolerate any form of disrespectful conduct among our ranks, should we find any,” Sinas said.

This is not the first time that Taguig police allegedly criticize people while implementing quarantine protocols.

Last April, the BGC precinct commander was in hot water after a video of him shouting at residents of a condominium went viral.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) defended the police officer, saying he is just cautioning them after receiving complaints from Taguig that residents do not follow quarantine protocols. Ella Dionisio/DMS