Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday welcomed a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of the Philippines on evidence admissibility, assuring that it will not lead to abuses. The ruling allows evidence seized during a valid warrantless search to be used in court even if not in plain view. Previously, only plainly visible items were admissible, raising concerns that key evidence could be excluded on technicalities.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the decision clarifies admissibility rules. "It empowers our officers na hindi masayang ang ebidensya (that evidence will not be wasted) on technicalities, as long as the initial stop or search was valid. Bilang kapulisan, responsibilidad natin ang ipatupad ang batas nang tama at patas sa lahat ng mamamayan (As police officers, it is our responsibility to enforce the law correctly and fairly to all citizens)," Nartatez said in a statement.

He stressed that the ruling does not grant unchecked authority. "The SC ruling doesn't mean we can search anyone at any time," Nartatez said. "We assure the public that the PNP will continue to serve with integrity and respect for the rule of law."

Nartatez said the decision will affect routine operations and investigations nationwide. "We will review and update our Standard Operating Procedures to align with the ruling while protecting citizens' rights. Even if the 'plain view' requirement is relaxed, dapat malinaw pa rin ang probable cause (probable cause should still be clear). Our focus is on documenting the legality of the operations," he said.

He added that the PNP will enforce strict internal monitoring and accountability measures to prevent abuse.