Palace: No need to tap military vs kidnappings

Malacañang does not see the need to involve the military in the government's anti-kidnapping operations, echoing the Philippine National Police (PNP)'s statement that the situation is under control and that recent incidents are isolated.

- - With Mark Ernest Villeza, Bella Cariaso

Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel has suggested the deployment of the military's intelligence service and other units to assist the PNP in countering kidnapping groups, particularly when their acts threaten public safety or national security.

He pointed out that under the 1987 Constitution, President Marcos has the power to use military intelligence in support of the police, especially in cases involving grave threats like kidnap groups that may have ties with transnational crime.

However, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro believes there is no need to tap military intelligence at this point.

"Others are spreading the claim that there is a widespread kidnapping spree in the country. That is not true. That is huge fake news," the Palace press officer said.

Castro quoted PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, who had said that the recent kidnapping incidents were "isolated, calculated acts rooted in personal and financial vendettas."

"The situation is firmly under control, our law enforcement strategies are effective, criminal networks are being taken down. So let us see what will be the action and the strategy of the PNP, whether they really need to tap military intelligence," she added.

Some groups have expressed concern over the supposed "resurgence" of kidnappings in the Philippines, including the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption, which labeled the recent incidents as a "direct blow" to the country's economic future.

VACC president Arsenio Evangelista told ABS-CBN News in a recent interview that there would be capital flight among businessmen if peace and order is down.

Anti-kidnap, anti-fake news committees

To combat kidnapping and fake news, the PNP formed two committees as part of its commitment to public safety and information integrity.