PNP chief orders probe into Lucban MPS “victim-blaming” post on social media

June 14, 2020

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Archie Gamboa on Saturday has directed the Directorate for Police Community Relations to look into the reported victim-blaming statement posted in the official Facebook page of Lucban Municipal Police Station.

In a statement, Gamboa said the Police Chief of Lucban MPS and all personnel who may be involved will be made to explain why they allowed posting of such statements in their social media account that elicited negative reactions from the public for implied victim blaming.

Gamboa was referring to Lucban MPS social media post. While it asked the public to love women and not abuse their kindness, the Lucban PMS also said, "Girls, don't wear extra short clothing and complain to us when you feel harassed. Just think about it."

Also, they will be made to justify why no administrative sanctions shall be imposed upon them for their actions despite earlier instructions to take down posts with similar content.

“The PNP strongly advocates the protection of women and children and maintains a strict set of guidelines for its personnel on the use of social media,” Gamboa said.

“Violators may face administrative and even criminal charges, if evidence warrants,” he added.

Recently, the Lucban MPS social media post drew flak from netizens for allegedly being sexist.

According to Police Major General Dionardo Carlos, DPCR chief, following the instruction of the chief PNP, they immediately directed the concerned MPS to pull down the post.

“I also called the COP (Chief of Police) and asked him what corrective action was taken by him. According to him, he is made to explain through the channel what transpired that led to the social media posting by his unit,” Carlos said.

Carlos added the COP has identified the personnel responsible.

“A reminder to strictly follow the PNP SOCMED Protocols was issued to all police units following the postings from PRO13, Butuan CPO and Lucban MPS,” he said.

“As part of the corrective measures, DPCR will conduct Webinar to train and/or reorient the personnel on gender sensitivity and awareness, PNP CMC on Social Media Protocols, and other relevant laws,” he added.

As of Sunday, the page of Lucban Municipal Police Station was apparently shut down as it not be found on the social media platform. Ella Dionisio/DMS