PNP on high alert after Duterte’s arrest at NAIA

By Paulo DS Papa

THE Naga City Police Office and the Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office have been placed on high alert following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday morning, March 11.

Duterte was apprehended by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at approximately 10:00 AM at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) upon his return from Hong Kong.

He was subsequently transported to Villamor Airbase, where he and former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea awaited departure via a chartered plane to the Netherlands. Duterte is set to face trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for charges of crimes against humanity related to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

In response to the arrest, Malacañang has directed all law enforcement agencies to maintain heightened alert levels to ensure public safety and order. The PNP, under the guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has been instructed to enforce the law impartially while respecting the rights of citizens. Marcos confirmed that the arrest was conducted appropriately and in accordance with legal procedures.

PSSG Roberto Aguillon, deputy spokesman of the Naga City Police Office, confirmed in an interview that their personnel have been instructed to respond to any incidents that may arise following Duterte’s arrest.

“Since the arrest of former President Duterte, the city remains peaceful. However, we are coordinating with the city government regarding permit applications for protest rallies,” Aguillon said.

The police officer reminded the public that even freedom parks are not exempt from obtaining permits for gatherings. “We are prepared to deploy our troops in places where people may assemble. This is to ensure their safety and the orderly conduct of protests,” he added.

Duterte’s ICC case stems from a complaint filed eight years ago by former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and the Magdalo group, alleging responsibility for extrajudicial killings during his administration’s aggressive anti-drug campaign, known as Oplan Tokhang. Human rights organizations estimate that this campaign resulted in thousands of deaths, with figures ranging from 6,000 to 30,000.

As the situation develops, law enforcement authorities across the country remain vigilant to maintain peace and order.