CIA WITH BA : VIRAL SUV ARREST RAISES QUESTIONS ON POLICE USE OF FORCE

‘CIA with BA’: Viral SUV arrest raises questions on police use of force

In the first episode of the year, CIA with BA discussed a viral video in its “Tanong ng Pilipino” segment showing police officers blocking an SUV that appeared to be fleeing. The clip, which includes officers breaking the vehicle’s windshield, sparked online debate over police use of force.

A viewer raised the key question: “Kailan pinapayagan ang pulis na gumamit ng ganitong klaseng pwersa?” The video prompted concerns about whether the officers’ actions were legally justified.

Atty. Matt Cesa said the use of force depends on the situation and must be proportionate.

“Kailangan mong gumamit ng force depende sa situation. Kung may danger sa ibang tao, may harm sa sarili mo, ‘di mo magawa ‘yung duty mo, kailangan mong mag-inflict ng commensurate force,” he explained.

Atty. Rafael Rivera stressed the principle of necessity.

“You may use force as it is necessary,” he said, adding that the driver’s actions in the video could already pose a threat requiring police intervention.

Rivera further noted that based on what was shown, stopping the vehicle was warranted.

“Nakikita natin do’n sa sitwasyon, necessary gumamit ng force… dahil nagpo-pose na ng threat ‘yung pagmaneho niya ng sasakyan,” he said.

The panel also discussed possible charges if the vehicle was illegally obtained. Atty. Marian Cayetano said the driver may be charged with carnapping.

“And then kung meron pong force and intimidation, higher po ang penalty,” she added.

If a person or property was hit during the chase, liability would depend on intent, according to Atty. Bernadette Maybituin.

“Kung may deliberate intent… pwedeng malicious mischief,” she said, noting that reckless negligence could lead to charges of reckless imprudence resulting in damage, injury, or death.

Concluding the discussion, Boy Abunda cautioned against quick judgments based on viral clips.

“We’re so quick to judge base sa ating napapanood sa social media… may tendency tayong gumawa ng sarili nating assumptions,” he said.

CIA with BA, led by Senators Alan and Pia Cayetano, and Abunda, airs every Sunday, 11:00 p.m. on GMA7.