The next time you get flagged down at a police checkpoint, remember that they can’t ask you to step out of your car, sir/ma’m. This isn’t Hollywood.

“Mounting complaints against police officers manning checkpoints in Metro Manila have prompted the National Capital Region Police Office to issue anew its rule banning the frisking of vehicle occupants,” reports Non Alquitran in Philippine Star.

Officers at checkpoints can only check for contraband items such as firearms and explosives if these are in “plain view” of inspectors, according to Chief Supt. Dennis Peña, the NCRPO deputy director for operations.

He reminded police officers that they cannot ask drivers and their passengers to step out of the vehicle and frisk them. Such action is a clear violation of police protocol, and those who experience such treatment can file a formal complaint with the police.

The official also asked the public to stop only at valid police checkpoints, which should have officers in proper uniform and a mounted sign nearby that has the name of the checkpoint team leader and contact number.

Photo by Versageek (Wikimedia)

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