No suppression of freedom of speech in campuses, says Albayalde

PNP Chief Dir. Gen. Oscar Albayalde. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/ JAM STA. ROSA

There will be no suppression of freedom of speech and expression in campuses, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Oscar Albayalde assured on Monday, after the military claimed that communists were recruiting students in 18 universities to join the alleged “Red October” ouster plot.

This after he earlier said that professors who were instigating ideas against the government to students may face charges.

READ: Professors promoting ‘rebellious’ ideas may face contempt — Albayalde

“I assure you that there will be no police intervention to suppress academic freedom, speech, expression, and other fundamental liberties exercised in our campuses,” he said in a press briefing.

Albayalde said that the PNP recognizes that activism in campuses helps maintain the “vibrant democracy” in the country, but added that resolving to taking up arms is against the law.

He said the police will definitely address such actions with” appropriate response.”

READ: AFP: Reds recruiting in 18 schools for oust-Duterte plot

Albayalde also said that human rights policies are incorporated in the PNP, including in recruitment processes and trainings.

“The PNP remains responsive to the requirements of due process, rule of law and human rights in all police operations,” he explained.

Albayalde also said that they have started coordinating with the Commission on Higher Education and have opened lines of communication with school authorities to reduce the possibility of infiltration of extremist groups in campuses. /je