Human rights group Kapatid is calling on newly appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Melencio Nartatez Jr. to dismantle policies that have fueled impunity and undermined civil liberties, starting with the controversial quota-based arrest system implemented under his predecessor.
The group’s statement comes in the wake of Gen. Nicolas Torre III’s abrupt removal from office, a move that critics say reflects deeper instability within the Marcos Jr. administration.
Torre’s dismissal followed his reported defiance of a National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) resolution reversing key appointments, though the full scope of reasons remains unclear.
Kapatid described the leadership change as part of a broader “musical chairs” approach to governance, citing similar shake-ups in agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation.
The group also noted the symbolic shift in Nartatez’s appointment, a Philippine Military Academy graduate, marking a departure from the recent trend of elevating PNP alumni to top posts.
Kapatid urged Nartatez to rescind Torre’s quota arrest policy, warning that it exacerbates jail congestion and fails to address the root causes of crime.
“Quota arrests only worsen impunity,” the group said, “and serve as a numbers game that rewards volume over justice.”
The group also condemned the continued use of fabricated charges and planted evidence, particularly firearms, as a tactic to silence activists and dissenters.
“We call on the new PNP leadership to end the well-worn script of criminalizing activism,” Kapatid stated, “and begin living up to the human rights principles the institution claims to uphold.” (RRN)
