MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa on Friday ordered his regional directors to step up their clampdown against gambling, illegal cockfighting, and other activities violating protocols of the enhanced community quarantine.
This, while he rallied support to President Rodrigo Duterte, who threatened to enforce a “martial law-like” lockdown during his Thursday night taped address amid reports of many people breaching quarantine rules.
“In coordination with LGUs, PNP line units are also instructed to launch a crackdown on illegal activities, that constitute a violation of rules on physical distancing and gathering of persons, including illegal cockfight, card games, mah-jong, and drinking sessions in public places,” Gamboa said in a statement.
“I call on all Regional Directors to put action to the strong words of the President. I expect all of you to support this,” he added.
Gamboa also said the PNP backs Duterte’s “intention to decisively enforce a total lockdown for the entire period under Enhanced Community Quarantine.”