PNP urges victims to file raps vs checkpoint cops involved in sexual abuse

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday urged the public to file complaints against police frontline workers who are committing sexual abuses against women amid the quarantine period.

“The PNP takes these allegations seriously because we respect women and honor their role in society. We will never tolerate any form of physical or sexual abuse against women. I strongly urge those unnamed sources to immediately report to the PNP and to file charges against suspected wrongdoers,” PNP chief Archie Gamboa said in a statement.

Gamboa issued the statement after a news report said police officers manning quarantine control points allegedly force women to engage in sexual activities.

The PNP also asked victims or other informants to share reports of sexual abuse so that they can investigate and “take appropriate action against erring police officers.”

Gamboa also warned police officers that “the moment a police officer commits a crime, he stops being an officer of the law and becomes a criminal, a sexual predator.”