PRO3 CLARIFIES ARREST OF AETA PROTESTERS IN MOUNT PINATUBO

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — The Police Regional Office 3 confirmed that several Aetas were arrested on April 18 during a protest at Mount Pinatubo crater in Capas, Tarlac. 

According to the PRO3, the arrests were based on alleged violations of local ordinances and national laws, including obstruction of public passage and unauthorized entry into an environmentally-protected area.

The incident has since caught the attention of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).

The PRO3 assured the public that the case is being handled with full transparency, respect for cultural rights, and adherence to due process.

Initial reports from the Capas police said the arrests were carried out in accordance with police operational procedures, ensuring that the rights of those involved were protected.

“Ang lahat ng aksyon na isinagawa ng ating mga tauhan ay alinsunod sa umiiral na batas, kabilang na ang Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (RA 8371), at mga patnubay ng PNP hinggil sa makataong pagtrato sa mga nasa kustodiya,” said PRO3 director Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.

“Kinilala namin ang mga isyung binanggit ng NCIP at muli naming pinagtitibay ang aming pangakong pangalagaan ang karapatan ng mga katutubong pamayanan habang pinapanatili ang kaligtasan ng publiko,” she added.

PRO3 is currently reviewing the incident and compiling all relevant reports and documents to provide an accurate and objective account. 

The NCIP and other concerned stakeholders will be invited to a joint dialogue to address the raised concerns, promote mutual understanding, and pursue constructive solutions.

Fajardo said the PRO3 will also implement community immersion programs and conduct refresher training for its personnel through the Regional Community Affairs and Development Division (RCADD) to strengthen engagement and cultural sensitivity when working with indigenous communities.