• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has ordered a review of a police anti-illegal drug operation in Bacolod City following concerns raised by Maxim delivery riders over the reported use of a delivery rider’s uniform during the Nov. 7 operation.
In a statement issued Thursday, PBGen. Rudecindo Reales, PRO-NIR director, acknowledged the concerns raised by delivery riders, saying the use of uniforms associated with private service providers could create unintended implications for legitimate workers.
Reales said delivery riders could be mistakenly linked to police operations, exposing them to unnecessary risks and potentially compromising their safety.
While reaffirming the Philippine National Police’s commitment to intensifying its campaign against illegal drugs, he stressed that operational effectiveness must be balanced with professionalism, public safety, and the protection of innocent members of the community.
He said the concerned police office has been directed to conduct a thorough review of the incident, including compliance with existing operational guidelines and protocols.
The PRO-NIR will also assess the need to strengthen policies governing the use of clothing, uniforms, and other identifying materials associated with private individuals or commercial establishments during police operations.
Reales emphasized that delivery riders play an important role in community development and service delivery and should not be placed in situations that could expose them to suspicion, intimidation, or retaliation because of their work.
“Their safety and livelihood deserve our utmost consideration,” he said.
Reales also assured the public that the PNP remains committed to conducting lawful, professional, and accountable operations, stressing that anti-drug efforts should not result in innocent people becoming unintended casualties.
“Our campaign against illegal drugs must not only make communities safer from criminal activities but must also ensure that the people we serve do not become unintended casualties of our efforts,” he said. | GPB
