Military/Police checkpoints...

We hear many gruesome stories about military/police checkpoints like illegal items being planted in one’s vehicle or upon a person allegedly by military/police officers themselves during inspection as one form of coercion or blackmail; or people get shot and killed or illegally detained at checkpoints; etc. No wonder most people dread the idea of checkpoints instead of seeing it as an effective tool to ensure their safety.

Last month, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued an advisory opinion on rules on military/police checkpoints. According to Secretary Leila M. de Lima, they came out with this initiative to protect the public from abuses committed by law enforcers and to weed out illegal checkpoints. The ten (10) checkpoint rules outlined in the advisory are anchored on the constitutional guarantee against unreasonable searches and seizures (Section 2, Article III). These are:

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

These seem like sound rules to me and I am sure to a lot of people. But just like any rules, it must be monitored to ensure its effectiveness and strict implementation. I guess we just have to trust the system but at the same time remain vigilant against human rights violations.

Lastly and most importantly, I know you will agree with me that it always pays to be an informed citizen. So keep yourselves updated. Remember, ignorance of the law is not an excuse. ♥♥♥

For a full copy of the DOJ’s Advisory Opinion, click here.

Source:
The Official Website of Department of Justice