Palace defends Duterte's shoot-to-kill order amid quarantine

Malacañang defended President Duterte's shoot-to-kill order against individuals causing trouble during the enhanced community quarantine, stating it is a constitutional mandate to enforce laws and protect citizens.

Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo criticized Amnesty International for urging the government to end incitement to violence, asserting that threatening lawbreakers is not a crime.

Panelo cited Article 12, Section 18 of the Constitution, which allows the President to mobilize the armed forces to suppress lawless violence.

The warning was issued to remind citizens that the government is prepared to quell any unrest that threatens public safety, especially during the national emergency.

President Duterte had previously warned the Left and others instigating riots or harming health workers that they would be detained and, if necessary, shot dead.

Duterte emphasized that such actions are aimed at preventing the destruction of lives and properties and protecting the human rights of the populace.

The government will forcefully suppress any attempts to destabilize the nation or hinder the implementation of the Bayanihan To Heal As One Act.