Netizens Call For Pimentel’s Arrest For Blatant Violation Of Quarantine Protocol
NETIZENS CALL FOR PIMENTEL’S ARREST – Following his latest stunt, Senator Aquilino Pimentel was lambasted by people on social media.
Yesterday, the Senator broke quarantine protocol after going into the Makati Medical Center as a PUI for COVID-19. Understandably, Pimentel had a valid reason to be there – the birth of his child.
However, as a lawmaker amid a pandemic, surely he knew the repercussions of his actions. But, he went through with it anyways.
Although, in his defense, the Senator stated that he was unaware that he was positive for the virus. But, Makati Medical Center Director Saturnino Javier denounced the actions of Pimentel.
The Senator explained that his hospital trip was “essential”.
Yung quarantine kasi for non-essential movement. From my point of view, manganganak ‘yung misis ko. Sinong kasama yung misis mo? Eh ‘di ikaw,
However, Javier told CNN that the Senator should have held extra caution considering a resource person and a fellow senator – Miguel Zubiri was positive for the virus.
In a separate statement, Javier also called Pimentel’s action “irresponsible and reckless” and contributed to the burden of the hospital.
Following the news, Netizens quickly noted how the Senator should be jailed, fined, or stripped of a position for his actions.
A page on Facebook, Ahon PH, cited Interior Secretary Eduardo Año’s statement that violators of quarantine rules would be fined and jailed.
Afterward, they showed a comparison of the discrepancies of justice between social classes in the country. Previously, there were reports that a 69-year-old homeless person was arrested for sleeping on the streets amid the curfew.
Meanwhile, a Senator who clearly violated the protocols seems to have no consequences yet.
Charges?
Meanwhile, Facebook Netizen Mandy Lana said:
Arrest Koko Pimentel now or send a load and clear message to the whole Philippines that the laws of Enhanced Community Quarantine only apply to the poor and the powerless
#NoVIPTesting #NoVIPTreatment
As per the possible charges, University of the Philippines law professor John Molo said the Senator can face an array of charges and penalties.
Among them are suspensions or expulsion from the Senate due to his irresponsible behavior. Furthermore, Pimentel could be fined up to P50,000 and face jail time of one to six months.
Additionally, for violating the enhanced community quarantine protocol, Molo said the Senator may be fined with P10,000 to P50,000 and jailed for up to a year.
The Senator may also be sued for criminal negligence, disobedience to agents of authority, and graft and corruption for damages.
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