PNP: We're always in active support of AFP on peace initiatives

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 7): PNP: We're always in active support of AFP on peace initiatives

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said they are always in active support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in so far as peace initiatives are concerned.

"Ever since, we are always in active support of the AFP, sa amin is maintenance of peace and order," said PNP Public Information Office (PIO) chief and spokesman Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos in a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

The PNP made the statement following the interim joint ceasefire agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People's Army/National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF).

At the same time, the PNP urged for restraint in the absence of a formal ceasefire between the GRP and the CPP/NPA/NDF.

Carlos said that restraint on both sides would help in the success of the peace process.

He added that they are not conducting "offensive combat operations" like the AFP, since the primary responsibility of the PNP is the maintenance of peace and order.
The PNP official stressed that policemen are just conducting regular patrols to ensure the safety of the citizens but they are not hunting the rebels.

Carlos pointed out that once policemen receive complaints or monitor the presence of armed groups, then that's the time that they become "pro-active" such that it is the duty of the PNP to arrest armed groups.

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