The Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public and the Department of Justice (DOJ) that its campaign against criminality remains firmly grounded on the rule of law, respect for human rights, and due process amid concerns raised over the perceived imposition of a “quota system” for arrests.
PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III, clarified that the PNP does not implement any form of quota system, but rather emphasizes on the quality of the arrests, prioritizing the lawful and effective apprehension of criminals based on evidence and constitutional standards.
“We share the DOJ’s call to fight crime within the bounds of the law. Our focus has always been on quality enforcement, not quantity. Our goal is not to increase the number of cases, but to improve the quality of work and compliance with due process,” Torre said.
DOJ Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano earlier expressed concern that a quota system might incentivize shortcuts and lead to potential abuse.
In response, the PNP reassured the DOJ and the public that every arrest made—particularly warrantless arrests—is carried out in strict compliance with Rule 113 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure and subject to scrutiny through an affidavit of arrest.
“Arresting without a warrant is no joke. It is one of the hardest jobs of a police officer, because his career depends on it. That’s why we make sure that these are legitimate, legally supported arrests,” the Chief PNP emphasized.
Torre explained that performance metrics for PNP commanders and personnel focus on documented and lawful police actions, including validated arrests and interventions.
This metric, however, is not about numerical targets, but about ensuring that commanders and officers on the ground are actively fulfilling their role as frontliners in crime prevention and enforcement.
“We must remove criminals from the streets—and the law only provides one way: through arrest and proper judicial process. After arrest comes prosecution, and ultimately, trial. We are with the DOJ and the Judiciary in this process. That is the essence of the Five Pillars of the Criminal Justice System,” Torre noted.