Tag: PNP

Statements

On the Foiled Hostage-Taking of Former Sen. De Lima

The swift and decisive response undertaken by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the foiled hostage-taking of former Senator de Lima and the in-depth investigation already ordered by Chief PNP Azurin must be taken into consideration before the usual critics start to put the PNP in a bad light.

That being said, an impartial investigation must be conducted immediately with the end in view of preventing any similar incident in the future.

More importantly, the intended hostage is safe and unscathed even as we should pray for the injured police officer.

What is not known to many, an offer for transfer was already made by the PNP to Sen de Lima as early as mid-August this year on the occasion of the US Congressional delegation visit led by Sen. Markey, the reason being – the PNP Custodial Center is primarily designed for high-value criminals and high-risk terrorists. Unfortunately, the former senator declined the offer and opted to stay where she is presently detained.

That all being said, and without intending to preempt the authorities, high-risk detainees who are members of an internationally proscribed terrorist organization like the Abu Sayyaf Group should be isolated and not mixed with the other PDLs.

That, I assume, will be part of the recommendations in an investigation now being conducted.

*****

Speeches, Videos

At the PNP Foundation Inc.’s Donation of Equipment to the PNP

P/Gen Rodolfo Azurin Jr, Chief of the Philippine National Police; members of the command group and Directorial Staff and all the officers present; the men and women of the proud and brave organization, the PNP, magandang umaga po sa ating lahat.

It always feels good to be back home. To some of us in the Board of Trustees of the PNP Foundation Inc. Camp Crame is our home, a place where we spent most of our adult professional life facing challenges too many that we have lost count of the number. How time flies, and fast.

Twenty-two years ago, I used to preside and lead our regular Monday flag-raising ceremonies where we would start our week’s work in our offices, in the field, or wherever we could be deployed to serve and protect the people; unsure if we would still be alive to attend the next hoisting of the Philippine flag right on this spot where we stand now.

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Photos

Lacson at PNP Flag-Raising Ceremony

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Sen. Ping Lacson attended the PNP flag-raising ceremony and the donation of equipment to the PNP from the PNP Foundation Inc. on April 11, 2022.

Statements

Ping: Anong ‘Lack of Groundwork’?

Hindi ba ground work ang paglaban sa mga kriminal sa lansangan at sa mga nasa matataas na pwesto sa nakalipas na 50 taon, alang-alang sa sinumpaang tungkulin?

Ito ang tugon ni Partido Reporma standard-bearer Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson sa bintang na kulang daw siya sa ground work.

“I risked my life countless times, kicking doors while leading my men to save people I didn’t even know. I fought notorious armed robbers to make people sleep soundly at night. I saved P300B of public funds from being misused and abused. Kulang sa ‘ground work’? I value my work,” ani Lacson sa kanyang Twitter account.

Related: Lacson: What ‘Lack of Groundwork’? I Value My Work
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Statements

Lacson: What ‘Lack of Groundwork’? I Value My Work

Risking one’s life fighting criminals both in the streets and in high office for the last 50 years, all without making a big fuss of it – all because he values his work.

On this note, Partido Reporma standard-bearer Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson on Friday debunked insinuations that he lacked “groundwork.”

“I risked my life countless times, kicking doors while leading my men to save people I didn’t even know. I fought notorious armed robbers to make people sleep soundly at night. I saved P300B of public funds from being misused and abused. Kulang sa ‘ground work’? I value my work,” Lacson said on his Twitter account.

Related: Ping: Anong ‘Lack of Groundwork’?
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Statements

Ping: Disiplina, Bodycam Ang Tatapos sa EJK at Pang-Aabuso

Isang polisiya na may disiplina, kaakibat ng paggamit ng body camera, ang sagot ng administrasyong Lacson sa pagtigil sa extra-judicial killings at mga maling gawain ng ilan sa mga abusadong pulis.

“One word – Discipline. Disiplinahin natin ang uniformed services. Nagsisimula ang abuso kung nawala ang disiplina sa PNP, AFP and uniformed services,” ani Senador Ping Lacson nitong Huwebes sa lingguhang LACSON-SOTTO Meet the Press media forum.

Related: Lacson: Policy of Discipline, Bodycams to End ‘EJKs’ and Other Abuses
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Statements

Lacson: Policy of Discipline, Bodycams to End ‘EJKs’ and Other Abuses

A policy of discipline, backed by the use of body cameras, will be the answer of the Lacson administration in stopping extra-judicial killings and other abuses by rogue members of the Philippine National Police.

“One word – Discipline. Disiplinahin natin ang uniformed services. Nagsisimula ang abuso kung nawala ang disiplina sa PNP, AFP and uniformed services (One word – discipline. We will ensure discipline in our uniformed services. Abuses start when discipline is lost in the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and uniformed services),” Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson stressed on Thursday at the weekly LACSON-SOTTO Meet the Press media forum.

Related: Ping: Disiplina, Bodycam Ang Tatapos sa EJK at Pang-Aabuso
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Interpellation, Statements, Videos

Ping, Kinuwestiyon ang Tila Pamumulitika ng ‘Global Coalition’ sa PNP

Kinuwestyon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson nitong Martes ang umano’y “global coalition” sa Philippine National Police na maaaring magamit sa pamumulitika.

Ayon sa senador, kahina-hinala ang pakay ng “Global Coalition of Lingkod Bayan Advocacy Support Groups and Force Multipliers,” na inilunsad noong ika-25 ng Hunyo nitong taon.

“The last time I heard, the PNP is a territorial force. It is supposed to address internal threats. Why a ‘global coalition’? Bakit kailangan ng force multiplier na global, e internal threat tayo? Mukhang OFWs ang target nito,” tanong ni Lacson sa PNP sa kanyang interpelasyon sa badyet ng Department of Interior and Local Government.

Related: Politicking? Lacson Questions PNP Official’s ‘Global Coalition’
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Interpellation, Statements, Videos

Politicking? Lacson Questions PNP Official’s ‘Global Coalition’

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson questioned on Tuesday a supposed “global coalition” in the Philippine National Police (PNP) that may potentially be used for partisan politics.

Lacson questioned the purpose of the “Global Coalition of Lingkod Bayan Advocacy Support Groups and Force Multipliers,” which was launched on June 25 this year.

“The last time I heard, the PNP is a territorial force. It is supposed to address internal threats. Why a ‘global coalition’? Bakit kailangan ng force multiplier na global, e internal threat tayo? Mukhang OFWs ang target nito,” he asked the PNP during his interpellation of the Department of Interior and Local Government’s budget for 2022.

Related: Ping, Kinuwestiyon ang Tila Pamumulitika ng ‘Global Coalition’ sa PNP
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Radio, Statements, TV

Ping Nabahala sa Pagkumpirma ng PNP Chief sa ‘Data-Gathering’

Nakakabahala.

Ito ang naging paglalarawan ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa pag-amin ni Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Guillermo Eleazar sa nagaganap na data-gathering activities sa ilang mga barangay sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa.

Bagama’t una na ito pinabulaanan ng PNP, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang nabanggit na aktibidad, batay sa huling impormasyong nakakarating kay Lacson na namuno sa ahensiya mula 1999 hanggang 2001.

“The Chief PNP’s admission that such data-gathering activities are going on (and still going on, as per latest information received) is alarming. Being their former chief, I cannot allow the PNP to engage in partisan politics and be ‘bastardized’, worse – using public funds,” banggit ni Lacson sa kanyang Twitter account.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson Alarmed over PNP Chief’s Admission of ‘Data-Gathering’ Activities
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Radio, Statements, TV

Lacson Alarmed over PNP Chief’s Admission of ‘Data-Gathering’ Activities

Alarming.

This was how Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson described on Tuesday the admission by Philippine National Police chief Guillermo Eleazar that there are “data-gathering” activities in several barangays nationwide.

Citing the latest information reaching him, Lacson – who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001 – also said such activities are still ongoing, amid the PNP’s initial denial.

“The Chief PNP’s admission that such data-gathering activities are going on (and still going on, as per latest information received) is alarming. Being their former chief, I cannot allow the PNP to engage in partisan politics and be ‘bastardized’, worse – using public funds,” Lacson said on his Twitter account.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping Nabahala sa Pagkumpirma ng PNP Chief sa ‘Data-Gathering’
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Statements

Ping: Dahil Itinanggi ng PNP, Illegal Data-Gathering Gamit ang Pondo ng NTF-ELCAC Itigil Na

Dapat matigil na ang pagsasagawa ng “census” sa ilang barangay gamit ang pondo ng National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), kasunod ng pagtanggi ng mismong pamunuan ng Philippine National Police (PNP) na pinapayagan nito ang aktibidad na ito.

Ito ang mensahe ni Senador Panfilo Lacson, kasunod na rin ng mga impormasyon na kanyang natatanggap tungkol sa “census” mula mismo sa mga field commanders ng PNP.

Ayon kay Lacson, bilang pangunahing sponsor sa Senado ng badyet ng NTF-ELCAC, hindi niya puwedeng ipagkibit-balikat na lamang ang ganitong impormasyon.

“The PNP’s denial should put a stop to the illegal data gathering activities on 30% of the country’s local population. As the Senate’s principal sponsor of the NTF-ELCAC budget, I cannot simply disregard a pattern of such reports coming from their own field commanders,” banggit ni Lacson sa Twitter.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson: PNP Denial Should End Illegal Data-Gathering Using NTF-ELCAC Funds
Continue reading “Ping: Dahil Itinanggi ng PNP, Illegal Data-Gathering Gamit ang Pondo ng NTF-ELCAC Itigil Na” →

Statements

Lacson: PNP Denial Should End Illegal Data-Gathering Using NTF-ELCAC Funds

The denial by the Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership that it authorized reported “census” activities in some barangays using funds of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) should put an end to such data-gathering, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Saturday.

Lacson said he cannot simply disregard such reports since he is the principal sponsor of the NTF-ELCAC’s budget in the Senate – especially if the reports originate from the PNP’s own field commanders.

“The PNP’s denial should put a stop to the illegal data gathering activities on 30% of the country’s local population. As the Senate’s principal sponsor of the NTF-ELCAC budget, I cannot simply disregard a pattern of such reports coming from their own field commanders,” Lacson, who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001, said in a post on his Twitter account.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping: Dahil Itinanggi ng PNP, Illegal Data-Gathering Gamit ang Pondo ng NTF-ELCAC Itigil Na
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Statements

On the PNP’s Restrictions on Fetching APORs During ECQ
Image courtesy: PNA

The Philippine National Police should at least take a second look at some restrictions during the two-week Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila – such as not allowing the fetching of Authorized Persons Outside of Residence (APORs).

Huwag naman sanang pabigla-bigla ang restrictions, to a point of being impractical if not illogical. Instead, they may want to exert a little extra effort to find a possible win-win solution.

Baka may paraan to satisfy both health concerns and a little convenience for our APORs who need to work to feed their families, or render indispensable service to others, like health workers and other frontliners.

*****

Statements

Ping sa PDEA, DDB: Mas Malalim na Imbestigasyon sa Pagsangkot, ‘Connections’ ng Ilang Tsino sa Drug Operations sa Bansa
Shabu seized in Aug. 1, 2021 operation. Image courtesy: PDEA

Bakit lalong nagiging lantaran ang pagkasangkot sa ilegal na droga ng ilang Tsino sa ating bansa? Gaano na sila katagal namamayagpag dito? May koneksyon ba sila sa pamahalaan?

Ito ang mga tanong na inilahad ni Senador Panfilo Lacson nitong Lunes kasabay ng pagsasabing dapat ay mahanapan ng solusyon ng Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) at Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), kasunod ng mga serye ng operasyon ng Philippine National Police (PNP) laban sa ilegal na droga.

“Salute to the PNP! More than these successful police operations, the DDB and PDEA should look deeper into the bold and imprudent behavior of these Chinese nationals to choose the Philippines as their base; how long they had been operating; their possible connections in government, etc.,” saad ni Lacson, na namuno sa PNP noong 1999 hanggang 2001, sa kanyang Twitter account.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson to PDEA, DDB: Look Deeper into Chinese Nationals’ PH Drug Operations, Connections
Continue reading “Ping sa PDEA, DDB: Mas Malalim na Imbestigasyon sa Pagsangkot, ‘Connections’ ng Ilang Tsino sa Drug Operations sa Bansa” →

Statements

Lacson to PDEA, DDB: Look Deeper into Chinese Nationals’ PH Drug Operations, Connections
Shabu seized in Aug. 1, 2021 operation. Image courtesy: PDEA

Why are some Chinese nationals being bolder in their involvement in drug operations in the Philippines? How long have they been operating here? Do they have connections in government?

These are among the questions that the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and Dangerous Drugs Board should look into, after a series of anti-drug operations by the Philippine National Police, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Monday.

“Salute to the PNP! More than these successful police operations, the DDB and PDEA should look deeper into the bold and imprudent behavior of these Chinese nationals to choose the Philippines as their base; how long they had been operating; their possible connections in government, etc.,” Lacson, who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001, said in a post on his Twitter account.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping sa PDEA, DDB: Mas Malalim na Imbestigasyon sa Pagsangkot, ‘Connections’ ng Ilang Tsino sa Drug Operations sa Bansa
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Photos, Statements, Videos

Ping: Pandemya Magtatala ng Pinakaseryoso, Pinakamahalagang Halalan sa 2022

Senate President Tito Sotto and Senator Ping Lacson in La UnionLA UNION – Maitatala bilang pinakaseryoso at pinakamahalaga ang pambansang halalan sa susunod na taon bunga ng samu’t saring problemang kinakaharap ng bansa na pinangungunahan ng pandemya sa COVID-19.

Binanggit ito ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa pakikipag-usap niya at ni Senate President Vicente Sotto III sa mga mamamahayag na nakabase rito, bilang bahagi ng kanilang “Tour of Luzon” na konsultasyon sa iba’t ibang sektor sa mga posibleng solusyon sa mga problema ng bansa.

Apela ni Lacson, dapat na maging matalino at mapagmasid ang mga botante sa pagpili ng mga susunod na lider ng bansa batay sa mga problemang kinakaharap ng mga mamamayan.

“This is serious, very serious especially because of the pandemic. I think the decision we will make in 2022 is the most serious and important decision we all have to make and we should really think carefully,” banggit ng senador.

“My hope and prayer is that the campaign leading to the May 2022 polls will be a campaign of issues, and not a campaign of entertainment,” dugtong ng mambabatas.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson: Pandemic Makes 2022 Election the Most Serious One in PH History
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Photos, Statements, Videos

Lacson: Pandemic Makes 2022 Election the Most Serious One in PH History
Senate President Tito Sotto and Senator Ping Lacson in La Union

LA UNION – The general election in 2022 may be the most serious and important in recent Philippine history, especially because of the problems the country is facing brought about by the pandemic, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said.

In a chat with local media here, Lacson said Filipinos must think wisely and consider the current problems and issues carefully in selecting the next leaders who will address the humongous problems facing the nation.

“This is serious, very serious especially because of the pandemic. I think the decision we will make in 2022 is the most serious and important decision we all have to make and we should really think carefully,” he said.

“My hope and prayer is that the campaign leading to the May 2022 polls will be a campaign of issues, and not a campaign of entertainment,” he added.

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Radio, Statements

Ping: PNP Protektahan Dapat ang Mamamayan, Hindi Armasan

Bago pa man ikonsidera ang pag-aarmas sa mga civilian “volunteers” para maawat ang paglaganap ng krimen, dapat ipakita muna ng Philippine National Police (PNP) na kaya nitong protektahan ang publiko, ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson.

Ayon kay Lacson na namuno sa PNP taong 1999 hanggang 2001, dapat maging mas mahigpit ang PNP sa pag-isyu ng Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residences (PTCFORs) sa mga sibliyan kabilang na ang mga senador, kongresman at iba pang matataas na opisyal ng pamahalaan.

“The PNP should make it a point first to show that it is efficient, professional, and competent to protect civilians on the streets from malefactors – including those with unlicensed guns and irresponsible gun holders that make them a threat – before it issues PTCFORs to deputize civilian ‘volunteers’ as force multipliers,” paliwanag ni Lacson sa panayam ng Teleradyo.

“Otherwise, the public would wonder if the PNP is that helpless to ask for help from civilians,” dagdag ng mambabatas. “Besides, we do not want guns to end up with those prone to road rage and similar incidents.”

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson: PNP Should Serve and Protect Our Citizens, Not Arm Them
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Radio, Statements

Lacson: PNP Should Serve and Protect Our Citizens, Not Arm Them

Before entertaining thoughts of arming civilian “volunteers” to help stop criminality, the Philippine National Police (PNP) should focus on showing it can protect them, Senator and former PNP Chief Panfilo M. Lacson said.

Lacson also reiterated the PNP must be stricter especially in issuing Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residences (PTCFORs) to civilians including senators, congressmen and other ranking government officials.

“The PNP should make it a point first to show that it is efficient, professional, and competent to protect civilians on the streets from malefactors – including those with unlicensed guns and irresponsible gun holders that make them a threat – before it issues PTCFORs to deputize civilian ‘volunteers’ as force multipliers,” Lacson, who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001, said in an interview on TeleRadyo.

“Otherwise, the public would wonder if the PNP is that helpless to ask for help from civilians,” he added. “Besides, we do not want guns to end up with those prone to road rage and similar incidents.”

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping: PNP Protektahan Dapat ang Mamamayan, Hindi Armasan
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Statements, Videos

Ping: Tiwala Maibabalik Kung ‘Wang-wang’ Sama-Sama Nating Lipulin

Isa sa una at mahalagang hakbang para maibalik ang tiwala sa pamahalaan at maging ng publiko sa kanilang kapwa ay ang sama-samang pagkilos para ipagbawal at matigil na ang pag-abuso sa sirena o “wang-wang.”

Ayon kay Senador at dating Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Panfilo Lacson, hindi lamang ang kapulisan ang may responsibilidad para hulihin ang mga umaabuso sa “wang-wang” dahil may tungkulin din ang pribadong sektor na kadalasang naabala at nahahawi sa mga lansangan.

“No one wants to be stuck in traffic while heading for school or work, much less see the so-called privileged few zip past them in cars with wang-wangs blaring. In some cases, the passengers of the vehicles with wang-wang are not even the government officials authorized to use such items. But we can do something about it instead of feeling helpless,” paliwanag ni Lacson.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson: Collective Action vs ‘Wang-wang’ Needed to Restore Trust
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Statements, Videos

Lacson: Collective Action vs ‘Wang-wang’ Needed to Restore Trust

A collective implementation of the ban on “wang-wang” (vehicle sirens) can be a key to restoring trust not only in government but also among citizens, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Monday.

Lacson said it is not only the Philippine National Police but also the private sector that should be responsible for keeping “wang-wang” off the hands – and vehicles – of unauthorized users.

“No one wants to be stuck in traffic while heading for school or work, much less see the so-called privileged few zip past them in cars with wang-wangs blaring. In some cases, the passengers of the vehicles with wang-wang are not even the government officials authorized to use such items. But we can do something about it instead of feeling helpless,” said Lacson, who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping: Tiwala Maibabalik Kung ‘Wang-wang’ Sama-Sama Nating Lipulin
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Statements, Videos

Ping: PNP na Istrikto sa Paglisensya ng Baril, ‘di Pag-Aarmas ng Sibilyan, ang Pipigil sa Krimen

Mas istrikto na panuntunan sa pagpapahintulot sa pagdadala ng baril sa labas ng tahanan o maaring pagkansela sa Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residences (PTCFORs) ang mas epektibong solusyon sa patuloy na paglaganap ng krimen, kumpara sa pag-armas ng sibilyan.

Ito ang iginiit ni Senador at dating Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Panfilo Lacson matapos na lumutang ang ideyang pag-aarmas sa mga sibilyan laban sa mga kriminal.

Ayon kay Lacson na namuno sa PNP mula 1999 hanggang 2001, magbubunsod lamang ng karagdagang krimen kung pag-armasin ang ilang sibilyan partikular na ang tinaguriang anti-crime “volunteers.”

“Arming civilians to fight criminality could backfire, especially if they don’t have the proper training and mindset. In the United States, there have been so many fatal shootings due to loose firearm laws,” paliwanag ni Lacson sa isang media forum sa Maynila.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson: Stricter Gun Control, Not Arming Civilians, to Thwart Crime
Continue reading “Ping: PNP na Istrikto sa Paglisensya ng Baril, ‘di Pag-Aarmas ng Sibilyan, ang Pipigil sa Krimen” →

Statements, Videos

Lacson: Stricter Gun Control, Not Arming Civilians, to Thwart Crime

Stricter gun control measures by the Philippine National Police, including the more stringent issuance or even suspension of Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residences (PTCFORs), would be a better solution to stopping criminality than arming civilians, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Sunday.

Lacson, who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001, warned that the prospect of issuing firearms to anti-crime “volunteers” to help enforce the law may result in even more crime, especially if this is abused.

“Arming civilians to fight criminality could backfire, especially if they don’t have the proper training and mindset. In the United States, there have been so many fatal shootings due to loose firearm laws,” he said at a forum in Manila.

“The shooting incidents involving policemen not on duty – such as Jonel Nuezca in December 2020, and Hensie Zinampan earlier this year – should serve as a valuable lesson to us. That is why I had suggested as a policy recommendation that policemen should turn in their issued firearms to their units’ armorer or supply officer when on off-duty status, and should not be issued PTCFORs while still in the active service. If our law enforcers who are supposed to be trained are prone to lapses, how much more in the case of untrained civilians?” Lacson added.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping: PNP na Istrikto sa Paglisensya ng Baril, ‘di Pag-Aarmas ng Sibilyan, ang Pipigil sa Krimen
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Statements

Ping: PNP Body Cameras, Gamitin na Para Buy-Bust Ops ‘Di Pagdudahan

Sa harap ng umiinit na kontrobersiya sa isang anti-drug operation sa Laguna, ipinanawagan ni Senador Panfilo Lacson ang pagpapabilis sa proseso para makumpleto na at ganap nang magamit ang mga body cameras na inilaan para sa mga operatiba ng Philippine National Police (PNP).

Nadamay at napatay sa nabanggit na operasyon ang isang 16-taong gulang na tinedyer na ayon sa mga kaanak ay sadyang pinatay at ikinatuwiran naman ng mga pulis na ito ay nanlaban.

“The killing of a minor in a recent PNP drug bust operation and the subsequent ‘he says, she says’ conflicting versions of the story should prod the PNP to fast-track the procurement of more body cameras and require all their personnel deployed in field operations,” banggit ni Lacson.

Bukod sa naturang panawagan, umaasa rin si Lacson – na namuno sa PNP noong 1999 hanggang 2001 – na sa pinakamaagang panahon ay maglalabas ng patakaran ang Korte Suprema sa paggamit ng body cameras na magpapatigil sa pagbabatuhan ng kamalian at pangangatuwiran para palabasin na sila ang tama, sa pagitan ng mga operatiba at grupo o indibiduwal na target ng operasyon.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson Pushes Fast-Tracking of PNP Body Cameras amid Laguna Buy-Bust Mess
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Statements

Lacson Pushes Fast-Tracking of PNP Body Cameras Amid Laguna Buy-Bust Mess

Amid the controversy involving the killing of a minor in an anti-drug operation in Laguna, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson on Monday pushed for the fast-tracking of the procurement and deployment of body cameras for Philippine National Police operatives in the field.

Lacson, who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001, also hopes the Supreme Court would issue soonest the guidelines for the use of the body cameras, which he said will lessen the “he said, she said” situation where various parties insist on conflicting versions of what happened.

“The killing of a minor in a recent PNP drug bust operation and the subsequent ‘he says, she says’ conflicting versions of the story should prod the PNP to fast-track the procurement of more body cameras and require all their personnel deployed in field operations,” he said.

“We hope the Supreme Court would issue soonest the guidelines and protocols for the use of the body cameras based on established jurisprudence that defines ‘reasonable expectation of privacy test’ – which will be a major asset to our law enforcers as well as improved protection of civilians against police abuses,” he added.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping: PNP Body Cameras, Gamitin na Para Buy-Bust Ops ‘Di Pagdudahan
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Statements

Ping: Pinaigting na Presensiya ng mga Pulis, Tulong sa mga Pinoy Abroad vs Hate Crimes
Image: CTTO

Mapipigilan ang hate crimes na bumiktima sa mga Pinoy sa abroad sa pamamagitan ng mas pinaigting na presensiya ng mga pulis sa mga lugar ng mga ito.

Ito ang nakikitang solusyon at pagsuporta na rin ni Senador Panfilo Lacson, dating Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, sa panawagan ng opisyal ng pamahalaan sa ibayong dagat upang maawat ang patuloy na pagdami ng mga Pinoy na dinadahas doon.

Una nang hiniling ni Consul General to New York Elmer Cato ang mas pinaigting na presensiya ng pulisya sa mga lugar sa Estados Unidos bunga ng umiinit na anti-Asian hate, kung saan pinakahuling insidente ang naganap sa isang Pinay na consular officer sa New York.

Ayon kay Lacson, malaki ang maitutulong ng presensiya ng mga awtoridad para sa proteksiyon ng mga Pinoy hindi lamang sa US kundi sa iba pang panig ng mundo na kinaroroonan ng mga ito.

Related: Lacson: Greater Police Presence Needed vs Hate Incidents vs Filipinos Abroad
Continue reading “Ping: Pinaigting na Presensiya ng mga Pulis, Tulong sa mga Pinoy Abroad vs Hate Crimes” →

Statements

Lacson: Greater Police Presence Needed vs Hate Incidents vs Filipinos Abroad
Image: CTTO

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson on Sunday backed calls for increased police presence to prevent further incidents of anti-Asian hate in the United States, following the latest incident where a Filipina consular officer was verbally assaulted in New York.

Lacson supported Consul General Elmer Cato’s calls for increased police presence especially in the subways; and for Filipinos to report hate crimes to the Consulate or via 911 if they witness or become victims themselves of such crimes.

“Based on accounts initially cited by Consul General to New York Elmer Cato, there have been at least 14 hate incidents involving members of the Filipino community so far this year, counting the latest incident. This is disturbing and has to stop,” said Lacson, who chairs the Committee on Foreign Affairs in the Commission on Appointments.

Related: Ping: Pinaigting na Presensiya ng mga Pulis, Tulong sa mga Pinoy Abroad vs Hate Crimes
Continue reading “Lacson: Greater Police Presence Needed vs Hate Incidents vs Filipinos Abroad” →

Hearings/Investigations, Statements, Videos

Senate Committee Hearing on MUP Concerns

Sen. Lacson’s Opening Statement at the Hearing

Good morning, everyone.

As a refresher, allow me to briefly recount where we left off after the Joint Committee Hearing that we conducted last February of 2021, pertaining to the proposed measures that seek to address the pressing concerns from the ballooning pension requirements of our Military and Uniformed Personnel (MUP).

Before the suspension of the said hearing, the Committee had requested the following:

1. For various MUPs to submit to the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) the necessary data with respect to the new entrants, so the latter will be able to update its actuarial study dated 05 January 2021; and

2. For the agencies to submit complete data on the real properties to aid the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in computing the total value of assets that may be considered in establishing the seed fund.

This Committee has been informed that, to date, the GSIS is yet to update its actuarial study due to either incomplete or delayed submission of some agencies. We can skip this for now as we were told the aggregate amount involved is not substantial enough to contribute to the reduction of subsidies coming from the GAA. Not to mention that the incomplete submission of data has already delayed the crafting of the committee report.

Continue reading “Senate Committee Hearing on MUP Concerns” →

Documents, PingBills, Senate Resolutions

PingBills | Senate Resolution 725, Seeking Probe into Killing of Calbayong Mayor Ronaldo Aquino

The resolution seeks to look into the killing of Calbayog City Mayor Ronaldo Aquino and his two security escorts in an alleged shootout.

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Statements

On ‘Privacy Issues’ Involving Body Cameras for PNP Personnel

If the Philippine National Police leadership has privacy concerns over the use of body cameras for police personnel, I would suggest that it direct the PNP Legal Service to read the Supreme Court ruling on Ople vs Torres (GR No 127685), regarding “reasonable expectation of privacy test.” According to the High Court, the test determines whether a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy and whether the expectation has been violated.

I happen to know this from institutional memory when I was being interpellated by Sen. Leila de Lima on the bill amending Republic Act 4200, otherwise known as the Anti-Wiretapping Act, involving the issue of an individual’s right to privacy.

For example, a CCTV camera installed in a public place may be a good source of evidence since a malefactor captured by the camera while committing a crime will fail the “reasonable expectation of privacy test.” The same is true with the body camera.

Either way, the policeman committing an abuse in the exercise of his duties as well as the crime offender cannot use the “right to privacy” as their defense since either of them will fail the test.

*****

Statements

On the Plan to Deploy More Policemen, Soldiers to Enforce Health Protocols
Image credit: CTTO

We are under a state of public health emergency by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 922. The country is still struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In fact, there is a noticeable spike in the past few days, and the government must use its police power under the Constitution to make sure that the further spread of the virus is prevented or controlled.

That said, civilians should also do their part by cooperating with lawful instructions and following the proper health protocols. This is the key to minimizing the spread of the coronavirus.

*****

Letter to the Editor, Online

Letter to the Editor: Failed drug war [Panay News]

To Panay News: We wish to set the record straight regarding some claims by Mr. Roberto “Bert” Ladera in his March 4 column in Panay News – including that Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson is belittling the efforts of our law enforcers in battling the menace of illegal drugs, when he said that the anti-drug war has not succeeded.

Continue reading “Letter to the Editor: Failed drug war [Panay News]” →

Radio, Statements

Ping: Koordinasyon sa Anti-Drug Ops Klaruhin Para ‘di na Maulit ang ‘Misencounter’ ng PDEA at PNP

Kailangang pagbutihin ng mga awtoridad ang mga polisiyang ginagamit sa operasyon laban sa ilegal na droga upang hindi na maulit ang madugong misencounter na nangyari sa pagitan ng mga operatiba ng Philippine National Police (PNP) at Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Ayon kay Senador at dating PNP Chief Panfilo Lacson, ang isa sa mga sistemang dapat na isagawa sa usapin ng ilegal na droga ay dapat na ang PDEA ang magsisilbing “overseer” sa operasyon kung saan nakatutok lamang ito sa intelihensiya habang ang pagsalakay o pagtimbog ay ipapaubaya na sa mga sinanay na tauhan ng PNP.

“We have to resolve the trust issue between the PNP and PDEA. But it would be better if the PDEA acted as overseer in anti-drug operations, and focus on intelligence-gathering, whether it is technical or human intelligence,” paliwanag ni Lacson sa panayam sa kanya ng DZBB.

Ang nabanggit na sistema ay ginagamit na ng ibang bansang nagpapatupad ng seryosong kampanya laban sa ilegal na droga.

“In other countries, the output of intelligence work is shared with specially trained police units, with one or two PDEA operatives accompanying or ‘guiding’ the police force in the operation. That is the ideal situation where coordination is smooth and tight. The last thing we need is the reluctance of our agencies to work together because of what happened,” dagdag pa ni Lacson.

Related: Lacson Stresses Policy Adjustments to Prevent Repeat of PNP-PDEA ‘Misencounter’
Continue reading “Ping: Koordinasyon sa Anti-Drug Ops Klaruhin Para ‘di na Maulit ang ‘Misencounter’ ng PDEA at PNP” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson Stresses Policy Adjustments to Prevent Repeat of PNP-PDEA ‘Misencounter’

The government may need to adjust its policies to prevent a repeat of the deadly “misencounter” between Philippine National Police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency operatives in Quezon City last Wednesday, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Sunday.

Lacson said one such adjustment would involve the PDEA “overseeing” anti-drug operations and focusing on intelligence work, and leaving the assault operations to specially trained police personnel.

“We have to resolve the trust issue between the PNP and PDEA. But it would be better if the PDEA acted as overseer in anti-drug operations, and focus on intelligence-gathering, whether it is technical or human intelligence,” he said in an interview on DZBB radio.

“In other countries, the output of intelligence work is shared with specially trained police units, with one or two PDEA operatives accompanying or ‘guiding’ the police force in the operation. That is the ideal situation where coordination is smooth and tight. The last thing we need is the reluctance of our agencies to work together because of what happened,” he added.

Related: Ping: Koordinasyon sa Anti-Drug Ops Klaruhin Para ‘di na Maulit ang ‘Misencounter’ ng PDEA at PNP
Continue reading “Lacson Stresses Policy Adjustments to Prevent Repeat of PNP-PDEA ‘Misencounter’” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson: Without Certainty of Punishment, Napoles Conviction Won’t Stop ‘Pork’ Menace

Without the certainty of punishment, the conviction of “pork barrel scam queen” Janet Lim-Napoles will not be enough to stop the menace of pork barrel and its iterations, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Saturday.

Lacson, who had battled the pork barrel system since 2001, lamented that not even the Supreme Court’s ruling outlawing pork in 2013 managed to stop the practice since those involved would merely find a way to circumvent it.

“Have we solved the problem of ensuring public funds are used properly instead of going to the pockets of corrupt people? Can we be sure projects are free of bribery and other forms of corruption? These are questions that we must ask ourselves, and we can easily verify the answers – it takes two to tango,” he said in an interview on DWIZ radio.

Continue reading “Lacson: Without Certainty of Punishment, Napoles Conviction Won’t Stop ‘Pork’ Menace” →

Hearings/Investigations, Statements, Videos

Hearing of the Senate Defense Committee on MUP Concerns

Sen. Lacson’s Opening Statement at the Hearing:

This is a continuation of our previous public hearing held last October 5, 2020, on the MUP pension bills referred to this committee, which was suspended with the commitment that an actuarial study would be conducted by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) together with our key stakeholders, such as the Bureau of Treasury and the MUPs, among others.

Just to refresh our memory, last year and this year’s appropriations reflect the veracity of this serious financial concern, given the steep increase in the MUPs’ pension funding from P80 billion in 2020 to P120 billion under the 2021 General Appropriations Act.

Continue reading “Hearing of the Senate Defense Committee on MUP Concerns” →

In the News, Online, Statements

#PINGterview: The Mangahas Interviews

In an interview with Malou Mangahas, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* Tarlac shooting incident
* Need for proactive stance vs terrorism
* Pork barrel system
* Fight vs corruption

MORE DETAILS:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: The Mangahas Interviews” →

Statements

On the Policeman who Shot Dead a Mother and Son in Tarlac

If what’s on video tells the whole story, I enjoin the Philippine National Police leadership to show no mercy. They should spare no effort to make sure that he rots in jail. He’s the last policeman that they need in the force.

As a policy recommendation, policemen should turn in their issued firearms to their unit’s armorer or supply officer when on off-duty status. That said, they should not be issued Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR) while still in the active service.

The PNP should always uphold its motto “To Serve and Protect.” That includes taking appropriate steps to protect our people from scalawags in their ranks, whether they are on duty or not.

*****

 

In the News, Online, TheySaidIt

The Outlier [Manila Standard]

From Lito Banayo’s column in the Manila Standard: Those who know the man enough also know that he would rather fight the good fight, regardless of the odds, a seeming Don Quixote jousting against the windmills of evil, fighting the unbeatable foe, regardless of public approbation or disapproval from peers—outlier if need be—just to be consistent with what upon his graduation from the Philippine Military Academy in the Class of 1971, he vowed: “What is right must be kept right; what is wrong must be set right.”

Continue reading “The Outlier [Manila Standard]” →

Interpellation, Photos, Statements, Videos

Restoring Quick Response Fund for PNP, BFP Frontliners in 2021 Budget

In his interpellation of the DILG’s proposed P244.309B budget for 2021, Sen. Lacson sought to restore the Quick Response Funds for the PNP and BFP, whose personnel have been frontliners even at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sen. Lacson also proposed possible amendments to the PNP Law to raise entry-level salaries particularly for its lawyers, doctors and chemists.

MORE DETAILS:
 Continue reading “Restoring Quick Response Fund for PNP, BFP Frontliners in 2021 Budget” →

Statements

On the Appointment of P/Maj. Gen. Sinas as PNP Chief

Barring any controversy that Police Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas got entangled with in the past, he is a good choice for the top Philippine National Police post.

I’ve known him as a performer, always mission-oriented and undoubtedly will lead the police institution the way it should be led.

That said, the birthday mañanita event was a hard lesson that I hope he has learned from, and which he will surely remember whenever he will be confronted in making decisions affecting the PNP as well as his personal reputation.

*****

Hearings/Investigations, Videos

Senate Committee Hearing on ‘Red-Tagging’

Sen. Lacson chaired the Senate hearing on red-tagging and red-baiting, as chairman of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation.

MORE DETAILS:
Continue reading “Senate Committee Hearing on ‘Red-Tagging’” →

In the News, Online, Statements

#PINGterview: Mensahe sa ABS-CBN; Kritiko ng Anti-Terror Law; PNP; DOH

In an interview on Abante Radyo Tabloidista, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* ABS-CBN franchise [30:25]
* Fake news vs Anti-Terrorism Law [37:22]
* Cops accused of violating the law [16:07]
* Dealing with COVID at home [21:20]
* DOH issues in handling COVID pandemic [24:05]

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Mensahe sa ABS-CBN; Kritiko ng Anti-Terror Law; PNP; DOH” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

#PINGterview: Anti-Terror Law sa Korte Suprema; Pagtungo ni PRRD sa Zamboanga dahil sa Jolo Incident; Bayanihan 2

In an interview on DWIZ, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* Anti-Terror Bill to be questioned before the Supreme Court [10:01]
* goals of Senate inquiry into Jolo incident [34:24]
* PH warning vs China over military exercises [40:34]
* special session for Bayanihan 2 [42:39]

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Anti-Terror Law sa Korte Suprema; Pagtungo ni PRRD sa Zamboanga dahil sa Jolo Incident; Bayanihan 2” →

Statements

Decisiveness, Not Divisiveness: On the Need to Temper Emotions

While I can easily relate to Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay and understand how he feels about the Army officers slain in Sulu, emotions running high at this point is the last thing they need.

For all they know, their common enemies such as the terrorists and armed insurgents are already celebrating the Sulu incident – and even making plans to exploit it.

These enemies of the State and our people, through their legal fronts, are very capable of fanning the flames of animosity between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police by creating intrigues to further divide the country’s two major security forces.

Such fronts have demonstrated their capabilities in sowing disinformation about the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and the National ID system, among other measures designed to improve the lives of the people.

Ultimately, decisiveness, not divisiveness, is needed in dealing with the enemies of the State and the Filipino people.

*****

Statements

On the Fatal Police Shooting of Army Officers in Sulu: Speedy but Thorough Probe is Critical
Image: CTTO

A speedy but thorough determination of the facts that led to the tragic shooting of four Army officers by police in Sulu is critical and cannot be emphasized enough.

It is wise and proper that both Philippine National Police Chief P/Gen. Archie Gamboa and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. have agreed that the National Bureau of Investigation take full control of the criminal investigation, and allow the evidence to dictate the findings.

But the NBI’s investigation results notwithstanding, and more than making fully accountable all those responsible for the incident, the ground commanders of both sides must be in full control of the situation to avoid an escalation of the situation.

Our security forces already have their hands full in their fight against their common adversaries such as terrorism and insurgency in Mindanao. Allowing disunity in any form would give the enemy an unwanted advantage that could prove fatal for our nation.

*****

In the News, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: DOH Overpricing, NCRPO Chief Debold Sinas, Bayanihan Act Extension

In an interview on ANC, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* second wave of COVID? [0:21]
* pattern of overpricing at DOH [3:05]
* day of reckoning vs those behind overpricing [7:46]
* need for extension of Bayanihan Act [12:17]
* fate of NCRPO chief Debold Sinas [13:21]
* ABS-CBN franchise issue [16:50]

QUOTES and NOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: DOH Overpricing, NCRPO Chief Debold Sinas, Bayanihan Act Extension” →

Statements, Videos

Arrogance Has No Place in Implementation of the ECQ

During these trying times, the Philippine National Police has the unenviable task of implementing an Enhanced Community Quarantine, without fear or favor. For the most part, our policemen deserve kudos for doing their jobs.

Such is the case of police officers who arrested a foreigner in Makati City, after he challenged their authority with an arrogant and demeaning behavior. As if this were not enough, the police officers were subjected to unfair criticisms from netizens who saw the “edited” version of the video.

On the other hand, being an “investor with 80 employees” as he claimed does not give the foreigner the right to confront and incessantly berate a police officer who is merely performing a risky duty in the manner that he did.

The Bureau of Immigration may have to look into the matter. If a deportation proceeding is in order, they should act swiftly and decisively.

Arrogance has no place in our country – especially so in a situation where either all of us win, or all of us lose to the COVID-19 threat.

*****

Statements

On Legal Tools in Enforcing “Community Quarantines”

As the “community quarantine” to address the COVID-19 threat starts, the Philippine National Police should exercise caution in handling the situation.

Republic Act 9271, the Quarantine Act of 2004 – replacing a very old Republic Act 123 of 1947 – is silent on the movements of persons in the streets as it only covers domestic and international seaports and airports.

Hence, law enforcement authorities may not be legally equipped to conduct arrest unless local ordinances are available for its enforcement.

For its part, Congress may need to amend R.A. 9271 to adapt to this new normal, the COVID-19, and God knows what else would come to hit us in the future. Hopefully we’ve seen the last of its kind even as we pray that cure will come sooner than soon.

Having said that, the people are enjoined to fully cooperate. After all, these are extraordinary times that call for extraordinary measures.

*****