PNP on ‘heightened alert’ after Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest
This photo taken January 24, 2024, shows Philippine National Police (PNP) officers gathering for the pre-launching of Bangon Pilipinas Kick-off Rally held outside the PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City. INQUIRER/LYN RILLON
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) directed its regional units and national support units to be on “heightened alert” starting Tuesday evening following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“This pertains to the current nationwide peace and order situation where possible civil disturbance, rallies, and mass actions may arise following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” reads the PNP memorandum issued by the Directorate for Operations.
“In this regard, PROs (Police Regional Offices) and NSUs (National Support Units) are placed under heightened alert status nationwide effective 5 p.m. of March 11, 2025,” it adds.
Duterte was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Tuesday morning after arriving from Hong Kong.
READ: LIVE UPDATES: Duterte arrested by PNP after ICC issues warrant
His arrest was by virtue of a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity allegedly committed during his administration’s bloody war on drugs.
Supporters of the former president gathered in front of the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City to call for his release.
READ: PNP says it only assisted in serving Interpol notice vs Duterte
The PNP previously said it deployed 379 personnel to secure the airport area and other locations.
“All uniformed personnel, especially those performing police operations, are reminded to conduct proactive security measures and execute extreme caution for possible enemy atrocities,” the PNP said.
“Further, you are hereby directed to establish and intensify border control points and prepare CDM contingent (Reactionary Standby Support Force and Quick Reaction Forces) effective immediately to ensure peace and order, and public safety in your respective areas of responsibility,” it added.
