PNP: Cops will only conduct visual search at checkpoints

Motorists should be aware of their rights when stopped at a police checkpoint, the Philippine National Police said.

"The police are not allowed to physically search the vehicles or ask the passengers to get off the vehicle," PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Benigno Durana said in an interview on Super Radyo dzBB.

"You're not required to get off your car and open your trunk," he added, noting that physical inspection shall only take place if the police officers discover any contraband during the visual search.

Motorists who are caught possessing explosives, firearms, bladed weapons, and illegal drugs at checkpoints will be subjected to further inspection and may be arrested.

The PNP began its national checkpoint operations at midnight on Sunday at the start of the election period for the May 2019 polls.

Durana added that checkpoints should be located at well-lighted places in the community and manned by uniformed police personnel.

Proper checkpoint markings on the road must also be present and should include the names and contact details of the election officers in the area for public information.

Complaints about police checkpoint operations may be lodged through the national emergency hotline 911 or the PNP's official Facebook account. — Dona Magsino/BM, GMA News