PNP adopts tough love policy for ECQ violators

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is adopting a strict enforcement policy, described as ‘tough love,’ to ensure compliance with enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) measures.

PNP spokesperson P/Col. Bernard Banac stated that the police force is ready to implement stricter measures, akin to a martial law-like lockdown, if public disobedience continues.

President Duterte has ordered the police and military to be ready to enforce social distancing and curfew rules, emphasizing the need for public discipline.

The PNP, in coordination with the military, will continue to man quarantine control points, conduct patrol operations, and apprehend violators until the ECQ is lifted on April 30.

Deputy Chief for Operations Guillermo Eleazar, commander of Joint Task Force Coronavirus (JTF-COVID) Shield, confirmed their readiness to implement the President's orders if a martial law-level lockdown becomes necessary.

As of Thursday, the PNP has handled 119,061 quarantine violators, with actions ranging from arrest to warnings based on the offense.

Additionally, 8,429 public utility vehicle drivers were apprehended for violating public transport prohibitions during the ECQ, and 720 traders were arrested for various trade violations including hoarding and overpricing.