Manila Police says PWD, minors nabbed during Sept. 21 rally were not maltreated

The Manila Police District (MPD) on Monday denied allegations that the minors and a person with disability they had taken in custody during the September 21 rallies were maltreated. 

The MPD said that those detained were treated in accordance with the laws. 

“The Manila Police District reaffirms that no torture, physical abuse, or any form of maltreatment was inflicted upon any individual at any stage of custody. We value the public’s vigilance on this matter and pledge our continued dedication to serve and protect our fellow citizens, including those in our custody regardless of circumstance,” said MPD Acting District Director Police Brigadier General Arnold Abad in a statement. 

The MPD said that those nabbed in the riot in Mendiola were provided with “a spacious and air-conditioned room, nutritious food, decent clothing, other basic necessities, and a 24-hour security to ensure their safety and welfare.” 

The police added that those who got hurt during the riot were given immediate medical treatment. They were also allowed access to legal representation, the MPD also said. 

Thousands of Filipinos rallied in Manila and in Quezon City on September 21 to protest government corruption centered on the flood control projects. Violent incidents broke out at the rallies in Manila in particular, involving law enforcement and youths.

The Commission on Human Rights is probing the case of a minor who was brought to a hotel in the area by a police officer and taken to an upper floor, where he was attacked by some individuals.

Rights group KARAPATAN earlier slammed the alleged cruel treatment of PWDs who were arrested following the violent incident at Mendiola a few Sundays ago. 

“The MPD should take their hands off the arrested persons and stop their atrocious acts. What makes these violations even more reprehensible is that the victims are PWDs, who should be afforded protection and care—not violence and humiliation. These acts are blatant violations of their rights as persons deprived of liberty, guaranteed under both domestic law and international humanitarian standards,” said KARAPATAN Deputy Secretary General Maria Sol Taule in a statement.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government earlier alleged that the riot along Mendiola Street last September 21 was paid and organized, claiming that children as young as 11 years old were paid P3,000 each to take part. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BM, GMA Integrated News