PNP Chief Says Police Will Survive Without Aid From LGUs

Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa on Monday said the police will survive even without help from the local government units (LGUs).

“Although we need the help of LGUs badly, we will still survive without their help,” de la Rosa said.

De la Rosa was in Cebu Monday for his first official visit since he assumed office as the PNP chief.

He was reacting to a statement of Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena that he will no longer support the police operations against crimes and illegal drugs.

Osmena also said he will stop giving a cash reward of PHP50,000 to a police officer who kills a drug lord or any other criminal in the city.

Osmena said he decided to stop giving the incentive because he was dismayed by the relief of senior Superintendent Benjamin Santos as Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) director without consulting him.

“I will not be involved anymore in operations against crimes and illegal drugs,” Osmena said.

He earlier expressed disappointment over the relief of Chief Supt. Patrocinio Comendador Jr. as Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 director.

De la Rosa apologized to Osmena if he was hurt with the relief of some police officers without consultation.

“I’m sorry sir. We still need you. I hope you will change your mind,” he said.

De la Rosa said he has to relieve police officers who are linked to illegal drugs. He, however, did not elaborate. (PNA) LAP/EB/EDS