In observance of the Holy Week, the Philippine News Agency’s online news service will be off on March 29, Good Friday, and March 30, Black Saturday. Normal operations will resume on March 31, Easter Sunday.

— The Editors

NPC speaks up on PNP’s 'teachers list'

By Kris Crismundo

January 8, 2019, 6:35 pm

MANILA -- The National Privacy Commission (NPC) advised the Philippine National Police (PNP) to respect the individual’s right to privacy following reports that it has been spying on members of the left-leaning Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT).

In a text message to reporters, Privacy Commissioner Raymund Liboro said the collection and processing of data should have legitimate purpose and must still uphold a person’s right to privacy.

PNP chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde, virtually confirmed the order to profile teachers aligned with ACT saying it was made public because of a “leaked” intelligence memorandum.

“The Data Privacy Act recognizes the importance of public order and safety, and that processing of personal information is important for law enforcement purposes. This, however, is not without limits,” Liboro said.

“There has to be legitimate purpose, and the processing of personal data, especially those of sensitive nature, should only be to the extent necessary for the purpose. This means collection should always be consistent with full respect of human rights and the Constitution, particularly the right to information privacy,” he added.

He said the NPC will seek clarification on these reports from the PNP’s Data Protection Unit. (PNA)

Comments