Philippines: Police authorized to use violent force against those resisting arrest

Event

President Rodrigo Duterte reportedly told police officers on Monday, August 28, that they could kill individuals who violently resist arrest. Duterte also stated that officers would be held accountable for any unlawful killings. The president's comments come after hundreds of protesters have gathered in recent weeks to denounce the killing of a teenager by security forces during an anti-drug raid on August 15.

Context

Since becoming president last year, Duterte has aggressively pursued the eradication of drugs from the country. According to police, some 3500 people have died in anti-drug operations since Duterte came into office, although human rights organizations claim a much higher death toll.

The anti-drug campaign has sparked international criticism amid repeated allegations of killings, torture, and rape.

Advice

Individuals present in the Philippines are to follow all instructions issued by local authorities, to adhere to all government regulations, to monitor developments to the situation, and to maintain a low profile while in the country.

As a reminder, most Western governments formally advise against all travel to southwest Mindanao and to the Sulu Archipelago due to terrorist activity, regular clashes between the military and insurgent groups, and the risk of kidnapping by Abu Sayyaf.​