Duterte to police: Demand respect from Senate
President Duterte expressed confidence that police officers testifying in Senate hearings will be treated properly because of the presence of two allies, Senators Christopher “Bong” Go and Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
“With Bato and Bong, I am comfortable that you’re safe in the Senate. At least you won’t be treated rudely or shouted at,” Mr. Duterte told newly promoted police generals in Malacañang on Thursday.
Should the chamber’s sergeant at arms arrest them, Mr. Duterte instructed the police officials to slap the sergeant at arms.
“Let us not be rude. We are all workers of government. Do not presume that the person in front of you is a thief like you, whom you will shout at … We are not violent, but I will not let my people be degraded,” he said, referring to lawmakers.
Early last year, Mr. Duterte called on members of Congress to treat officials with respect and promised to “rescue” government officials who may find themselves disrespected as resource persons in congressional hearings.
