NCRPO chief urges cops to stay alert amid VP impeachment developments

MANILA, Philippines — The chief of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has reminded all police officers in Metro Manila to stay alert for possible demonstrations following the recent development in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

This came after the Senate impeachment court on Tuesday approved the withdrawal of three articles of impeachment against Duterte, leaving the accusations on unexplained wealth and nondisclosure of assets as the only remaining basis for the trial.

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In a statement on Wednesday, NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano said police personnel were alerted to assess potential security concerns and ensure operational readiness “to respond promptly to any public assembly or gathering that may arise in their respective areas of responsibility.”

“Our responsibility is to ensure public safety and maintain peace and order while respecting the people’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression,” Abrahano said in the statement.

“I expect all our units to remain vigilant, prepared, and capable of responding to any situation with discipline and professionalism,” he added.

He noted that police officers are directed to always exercise maximum tolerance when handling demonstrations.

The NCRPO chief also pointed out that being “strictly nonpartisan” should be upheld, since police officers must “serve the Filipino people regardless of political affiliation.”

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“We must remain neutral, uphold the rule of law, and perform our duties fairly, professionally, and without bias. Our role is not to take sides in political issues but to protect the public and ensure that the law is observed,” said Abrahano.

After the trial on Tuesday, the impeachment proceeding is scheduled to resume on Nov. 9, with the defense expected to present its evidence. /jpv