President Noynoy Aquino is seeking a review of the law defining certain rights of persons arrested or under investigation in a bid to help the police force in tracking down criminal suspects without violating their rights.

The President assigned the Department of Justice (DoJ) to undertake the study after a trial court judge in Bicol ruled that including a picture of a wanted suspect in police posters is a violation of human rights.

“I have ordered a review on the matter. If needed, we will seek an amendment,” Mr. Aquino said last Tuesday at the Palace, warning that any manhunt for suspects may be hampered by such interpretation of the judge.

“Suppose we are looking for a suspect but you cannot display a picture. How can you find him if it is not allowed,” he said.

The President said there might be an amendment on the protection of the rights of citizens since those wanted by law enforcement authorities are still presumed innocent.

“An amendment could be a suspect is defined as the one in custody as opposed to one who is being arrested,” he said.

At present, Republic Act No. 7438 provides the rights of persons arrested, detained, or under custodial investigation, including the right to have counsel.

The law, signed in April, 1992, also states penalties for an arresting or investigating officer who fails to inform any person detained of his right to remain silent and to have competent and independent counsel preferably of his own choice.