PNP: NO ABUSES IN MAGUINDANAO

The Philippine National Police will strictly follow rules of conduct in Maguindanao, PNP Chief Director Gen. Jesus Verzosa said yesterday.

Verzosa said police will respect human rights and will not tolerate any forms of abuse.

Meantime, Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, martial rule administrator and Eastern Command chief, said police and soldiers appealed to residents to stay calm and assured them that authorities will observe rules of conduct and will not violate their rights.

“The situation has been peaceful so far. We appeal to the citizens in Maguindanao to remain calm while police and military operations are ongoing,” Senior Supt. Bienvenido Latag said.

Ferrer also clarified reports that mass evacuation was taking place for fear of arbitrary arrests.

“Hindi naman basta-basta magaaresto,” Ferrer said.

President Arroyo had declared martial law over Maguindanao effective 9 p.m. Friday to quell rebellion reportedly being hatched by the Ampatuans.

The declaration of Martial Law was triggered by the massacre of 57 people, including 30 journalists last Nov. 23. The Ampatuans, a powerful clan, are suspects in the mass murder.