PNP says people can make citizen’s arrests

January 29, 2020

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said people can arrest even foreigners who are violating laws.

“The citizen's arrest is enshrined in our laws and whoever violates our law, whether locals or foreigners, it can be done by the people and it should be immediately turned over to the authorities,” said Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson, in a phone interview.

Banac said the incidents must be immediately reported to authorities.

Banac said people’s safety should be prioritized in conducting citizen's arrest.

“That’s why we advise to only conduct it for robbery incidents, snatching or violation of local ordinances such as urinating in public places, smoking, vaping in public places. These are violations the public can do without waiting for police or authorities,” he said.

Banac said calling out the attention of violators is important so they should not violate laws and ordinances.

Earlier, Banac warned foreign visitors, tourists and workers against disrespecting the country's laws, because they may face arrest.

This after a photo of a foreigner, who appeared to be defecating into a receptacle in Intramuros, surfaced online. But the Intramuros Administrator did not find human waste.  Ella Dionisio/DMS