PNP reminds cops of operational procedure after 6-year-old boy’s death

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded police officers to comply with the Revised Police Operational Procedure following the death of a 6-year-old boy in Caloocan City.

“Compliance to the requirements prescribed in the POP duly establishes a presumption of regularity in the performance of a duty under any circumstances,” PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde said in a statement on Thursday.

On Sunday, Grade 1 pupil Gian Habal was killed by a stray bullet as Police Corporal Rocky delos Reyes pursue a drug suspect.

Albayalde said if Delos Reyes “faithfully followed the police procedure” the death of Habal would have been prevented.

The PNP chief said police officers should be mindful of Rules 7 and 8 of the procedure, which states that the “use of force during police operations define the circumstances when the use of firearms in police operations is justified.” /ee

READ: Police confirm cop’s gun used in killing of 6-year-old boy