PNP says event where balloons were released to made in good faith, but failed to consider environmental effect
January 16, 2019
An event conducted by the Ilocos police office where balloons were used was "made" in good faith though they failed to consider its environmental effect, according to Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman Chief Superintendent Benigno Durana Jr.
Durana made the statement after netizens expressed their disappointment over a video posted by the regional police showing their Unity Walk, Covenant signing and Interfaith prayer ceremony at Provincial Police Office Grandstand in Lingayen on January 13.
The attendees were holding white balloons and released them after a prayer. The regional police officer, in a caption, named the event "symbolic release of balloons for a safe and fair election".
That video has been deleted.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said releasing of balloons in the air during special events is punishable under the law. They can file a case of violation of Republic Act 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000).
"I think they were not able to really consider the environmental consequences of an event or activity which for sure was based on good faith and their desire to create this kind of outcome that we want to witness as we prepare, progress towards the midterm elections," Durana explained to reporters.
Durana said PNP chief Oscar Albayalde allows his commanders to be more creative and innovative in doing their functions but they should be sure their activities will not have a downside effect.
"Well definitely the chief of the PNP... is not a micro-manager and he gives his commanders a chance to be more creative and innovative but they are required or expected to be more creative and innovative in achieving their function especially now they want to create an enabling environment for a peaceful, credible and honest election," he said.
"They have to be discerning as well in terms of the activities they will pursue that there should be no downside," he added.
The PNP expects their commanders and the regional directors will avoid this.
"It was based on good intention but since it has downside like its negative impact to the environment... Maybe they failed (to consider)... the implication of that activity which was obviously made in good faith," said Durana.
It can be recalled netizens told Cove Manila to cancel their drop balloon event which is for the club's New Year's Eve celebration. Ella Dionisio/DMS
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