PNP chief assures PAO lawyers of their safety

MANILA, Philippines — Acknowledging their role as public defenders, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. assured lawyers of the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) of their safety from threats, even from police officers.

Acorda made the assurance as he addressed the memorandum allegedly signed by Col. Dennis Siruno of the Surigao del Sur police ordering the Lianga municipal police station to investigate a female PAO lawyer last month for rendering legal assistance to communist rebels in Caraga.

According to Acorda, there is no directive from the national police headquarters to profile PAO lawyers giving legal assistance to suspected rebels.

“The Philippine National Police did not issue any directive to conduct profiling on personalities providing support to CTGs (communist terrorist groups) more so on PAO lawyers,” Acorda said in a letter to PAO Caraga head Ingrid Trixia Rullon-Nastor.

“The organization recognizes the unequaled contribution of PAO in guaranteeing justice in society, an endeavor that the PNP shares,” he added.

A copy of Acorda’s letter was received by the PAO on Thursday, May 25.

Acorda said an in-depth investigation into the alleged profiling of the PAO lawyer is ongoing.

He assured the PAO that appropriate action will be imposed against those responsible for what he described as an unfortunate incident.

“Rest assured of the utmost support and cooperation of the PNP on matters of mutual concern,” Acorda said.