PNP makes BWCs mandatory for all police ops

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has made the use of body-worn cameras (BWCs) or alternative recording devices (ARDs) mandatory during all police operations, following Supreme Court rulings.

An Aug. 2 memorandum from the Directorate for Operations outlines general protocols for using these devices during search and arrest warrants, as well as warrantless arrests.

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar emphasized that the devices must remain on throughout the execution of warrants and arrests.

For valid warrantless arrests, the BWC or ARD should be used whenever practicable.

Police operatives are required to submit a copy of the video recording along with an affidavit of authenticity to the court upon the return of the warrant.

The PNP is collaborating with local government units and other stakeholders to secure donations for body cameras due to budget limitations.