By Andreah Dianne Cartagena

The Philippine National Police (PNP) spoke up about the recent series of kidnappings in the country, saying there is no connection to all the reported cases, as different groups and motives caused this.


Photo Courtesy of AP/Gerard Carreon/Rappler


“Itong mga insidente na ito ay masasabi natin na hindi naman talaga ito gawa ng isang grupo ng isang tao, yung mga nahuli nating suspek at mga kasong ito ay kanya-kanyang silang may personal na motibo,” PNP Spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said during an interview at Teleradyo on Friday, August 26.

On Monday, August 29, PNP Chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. ordered an investigation of viral social media posts on abductions. The PNP also stated that an alleged white van and serial killer are not behind the previous rise in kidnappings and killings.

Despite some false rumors circulating on social media, Fajardo still emphasized how social media helps raise awareness among citizens.

According to Fajardo, Azurin has ordered the deployment of the police on the streets to increase everyone's safety.

“Pati yung ating mga police na duty sa mga administrative work sila ay na rin po ay palalabasin na rin particularly yung mga naka-assign po sa mga regional headquarters, national headquarters para makatulong po at ma-complement po yung mga pulis po natin nagre-render ng patrol duties,” the spokesperson said.

Fajardo added that Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr. ordered the reactivation of barangay police action teams to help patrol the barangays.

By next week, Fajardo said that PNP would provide a comprehensive report on the kidnapping and killing cases to Abalos.


Edited by Danfe Lean Grace Elopre