STOP – PNP Checkpoint

As a tourist or as a person living here, you may sometimes see roads obstructed by signs reading  ‘STOP – PNP Checkpoint‘. Sometimes there are uniforms and guns around but often they simply slow down traffic and observe – or they forgot to remove the sign.

The Philippine National Police on Wednesday issued guidelines on the proper conduct of checkpoints by its personnel as part of what it called its “rights-based policing”.

The 10 points PNP advisory:

• A checkpoint must be well-lighted, properly identified and manned by uniformed personnel. Upon approach, slow down, dim headlights and turn on cabin lights.
• Never step out of the vehicle.
• Lock all doors. Only visual search is allowed.
• Do not submit to a physical or body search.
• You are not obliged to open the glove compartment, trunk or bags.
• Ordinary/routine questions may be asked. Be courteous but firm with answers.
• Assert your rights, have presence of mind and do not panic.
• Keep your driver’s license and car registration handy and within reach.
• Be ready to use your cellphone at any time. Speed-dial emergency number.
• Report violations immediately. Your actions may save others. 

[Editor’s comment:] That’s nice of the police. I hope, they also informed their staff about these rules. It also would have been fine to publish the emergency phone number and the phone number, where complaints can be reported.