Pubdate: Wed, 13 Jul 2016 Source: Freeman, The (Philippines) Copyright: 2016 The Freeman Contact: http://www.philstar.com/freeman Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3437 PALACE: DUE PROCESS BEING FOLLOWED IN WAR ON DRUGS MANILA - Malacanang gave the assurance that the police will not abuse its authority in the fight against drugs. Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella, in an ABS-CBN News report yesterday, said the PNP has been directed to operate "with regularity" and that due process be followed. "These being a situation right now, continually they're being reminded that everything must go through due process. There should be regularity in carrying out their efforts," Abella said. "As per directive, everything should be done with regularity ... The pursuit of reducing the use of illegal drugs if not totally wiping it out should be done with regularity." Abella said that those who find anything irregular should file cases. "If there be any situation which they find irregular then proper cases should be filed," he said. Asked if government will also target other "big fish" involved in drugs, Abella said, "Basically the President is simply pursuing a line of action that is already set before him based on intelligence reports and stuff like that. I'm sure even these references will be included within the proper timeline." The Palace also said President Duterte uses only "one standard" and does not distinguish rich and poor in carrying out his war on drugs. "History has proven that he uses one single standard... from top to bottom," Abella said. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom