Rappler
DOJ stands firm on warrantless arrests – even if courts scaled down, prosecutors stranded
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra maintains that warrantless arrests for enhanced community quarantine violators are still valid, despite the closure of court offices nationwide.
Guevarra emphasized that criminal laws remain in effect even during emergencies.
He acknowledged that the lockdown presents challenges to law enforcement and judicial processes.
Guevarra stated that structures and procedures for law enforcement, prosecution, and court adjudication must adapt to the current situation, however difficult.
The Supreme Court is set to announce hotlines for urgent matters as judges and court staff will work on a per-urgent call basis.
An incident in Manila saw over 20 curfew violators detained for more than two days due to the unavailability of inquest staff for processing.
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Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra assured the public that the community quarantine in Metro Manila is not a state of martial law, but a necessary measure to combat the spread of COVID-19.
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Individuals who violate the terms of the Luzon quarantine due to COVID-19 can be arrested even without serious resistance.
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Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has ordered the closure of all prosecution offices nationwide starting Monday, March 23, in response to the rising COVID-19 cases and the Supreme Court's prior order to physically shut down all courts.
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Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento assured the public that prosecutors nationwide are on call to conduct inquests for individuals arrested for violating quarantine measures.
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