Palace orders deployment of additional troops to Samar, Bicol, Negros to suppress “lawless violence, acts of terror”

(Eagle News) — The Palace has ordered the deployment of additional security forces in some parts of the country.

The issuance of Memorandum Order 32 that ordered the deployment of additional troops in Samar, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental and the Bicol region to “suppress lawless violence and acts of terror” came a day after President Rodrigo Duterte said there had to be some changes in the military because of the number of soldiers’ lives lost in the war against lawless elements.

The memorandum was signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

The memorandum clarified, however, that  “no civil or political rights are suspended during the existence of a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence.”

“In particular, the (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and (Philippine National Police) are enjoined to observe existing rules and jurisprudence in instances that may justify the implementation of warrantless arrests, searches and seizures, as well as ensure compliance with guidelines for police/military checkpoints and stop-and-frisk situation,” the memorandum said.

“Any AFP or PNP personnel found violating any of the foregoing constitutional rights shall be held administratively, civilly or criminally liable therefore,” it added.