During the second part of the Senate hearing on the excessive force operation at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ on June 10, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa described his personal experience with numerous checkpoints outside the KOJC.
He expressed concern over the police officers wearing face masks, which he found questionable and intimidating.
Dela Rosa said, “As a Davao resident, I can feel the sentiments of the people here. No matter what we say, their perception of the police has changed. We need to address this issue before it escalates. If we don’t act, the situation might explode, and people will become extremely angry.”
He continued, “I’m speaking as someone from Davao City. During our last meeting, I observed [DILG] Secretary [Benhur] Abalos. As a former chief of the Philippine National Police and a Dabawenyo, I care about both the police and the people of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.”
“I was caught in a difficult position,” he added during the hearing on Tuesday, August 20. “When I returned to Davao last weekend, I went directly to the airport and told the driver to avoid left turns and head straight past the Kingdom of Jesus Christ to observe the situation.”
Dela Rosa recounted seeing numerous checkpoints and questioned the necessity of face masks for police officers. “I asked the patrolmen if face masks were part of their uniform since there’s no COVID-19 now. They seemed unable to answer and appeared to be following orders. This was intimidating.”
He further stated, “I will talk to your commanders. As someone from Davao, I understand the local sentiment. The perception of the Davao City Police Office has changed drastically. What was once praised as one of the best city police stations now faces a negative shift in public opinion.”
“Col. Marantan, as the city director, you’re focusing on arresting individuals connected to Pastor Quiboloy. But in doing so, you’re alienating yourself from the community,” he said. “It pains me as a lifelong Davao resident to see the relationship between the community and the police deteriorate.”
Dela Rosa added that Secretary Benhur Abalos was present to address the issue.
Abalos assured that he would discuss the matter with Davao City Police Office acting director Col. Hansel Marantan and (Police Regional Office XI) Regional Director Brig Gen Nicolas Torre III to improve community-police relations.
Dela Rosa urged for adjustments in police operations, suggesting that checkpoints should be managed in a more community-friendly manner.
He emphasized that while he supports the police’s duties, they must also maintain a positive relationship with the community.
“It’s essential to address these issues before they escalate further,” he concluded.
Abalos responded, “I assure you that we will review the protocols and ensure that masks are no longer required at checkpoints. We will address the issues to improve the relationship between the community and the police.”
Dela Rosa expressed his appreciation, stating, “I hope this will help restore trust and improve the situation for the people of Davao.”
