Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday said coronavirus lockdown violators might be shot by the military or police.

"I will not hesitate. My orders are to the police and military, as well as village officials, if there is any trouble, or occasions where there's violence and your lives are in danger, shoot them dead," he said in a mix of Filipino and English in a televised address to citizens after more than 100 residents in a Manila slum took to the streets to protest a lack of supplies.

At least 21 people were arrested, according to CNN Philippines.

"Do not intimidate the government. Do not challenge the government. You will lose.

"Is that understood?" he added. "Dead. Instead of causing trouble, I will bury you."

The Philippines has had more than 2,600 cases of the coronavirus and at least 107 deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins University tracker.

Duterte, who is known for his aggressive remarks and tough action on drug dealers, implemented the lockdown March 15.

National police chief Gen. Archie Gamboa on Thursday said Duterte remarks "overemphasized" the law and lethal force would only be used when absolutely necessary, Bloomberg News reported.

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