The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public that the Safer Cities initiative is being implemented with due process, fair enforcement, and full respect for the rights of every Filipino.

Speaking during the recent DILG Kapihan media forum, DILG Assistant Secretary Brian Mey Tomas emphasized that the initiative focuses on awareness, compliance, and public protection—not arbitrary arrests or punitive actions against ordinary citizens.

“Sa ilalim ng mga ordinansang gusto nating mapatupad, hindi outright arrest. Wala tayong direktiba na gumamit ng dahas o kahit anumang pag-o-oppress sa ating mga makikitang violators,” Tomas said.

He said local government units (LGUs) and law enforcement agencies have been directed to enforce ordinances with fairness and compassion, supported by sustained information campaigns and the standard practice of warning first-time violators.

PNP Spokesperson PCol. Allan Rae Co explained that the initiative follows the “warn, fine, case” protocol, wherein first-time violators are warned, repeat offenders may be fined under applicable ordinances, while serious violations may lead to the filing of appropriate charges.

“Hindi po tayo directly nanghuhuli. Actually, the majority of those who violated were only warned,” Co said.

Data from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) showed that during the first three months of the Safer Cities initiative in Metro Manila, 458,702 violators were warned and released, 272,277 were fined, and only 11,539 were subjected to formal charges.

Co said the PNP continues to refine enforcement procedures in line with the directives of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, including operational adjustments to address implementation gaps and strengthen safeguards against abuse.

He emphasized that the initiative aims to protect communities, especially vulnerable sectors, by promoting safer public spaces and preventing crime.

“This is not anti-poor. This is actually designed to protect the poorest of the poor,” Co said.

The DILG, together with the PNP and local government units, reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the Safer Cities initiative firmly, fairly, and within the bounds of due process to build safer and more orderly communities nationwide.