Manila solon to Torre: Ensure protection of suspects' rights

Manila 2nd District Rep. Roland Valeriano on Saturday, June 14, urged Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Nicolas Torre III to consider several measures that would help ensure the protection of the rights of crime suspects.

- JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

In particular, Valeriano said media interviews with criminal suspects without their legal counsel must be prohibited, and suspects’ presentation during press conferences should be governed by rules.

Valeriano’s reminders came as he stressed that all too often, cases are forgotten when media interest and the spotlight have waned or shifted elsewhere.

The Manila congressman said the presence of legal counsel for suspects is important as this will avoid preying on the ignorance of suspects about their right to remain silent and right against self-incrimination.

The presentation of suspects to the news media should also be governed by strictly enforced rules that respect the rights of any suspect or accused as guaranteed by the Constitution, he added.