PRO-7 expresses concern over Espenido’s statement

CEBU, Philippines — Lieutenant Colonel Jovie Espenido, currently serving as a witness in the ongoing House committee probe into the Duterte administration’s war on drugs, has labeled the Philippine National Police (PNP) as “the biggest crime group in the country.”

In response, the Police Regional Office of Central Visayas-7 issued a press release expressing deep concern and condemnation over Espinido's statement, calling it a baseless and unproven attack on the integrity of the entire police force.

“The men and women of Police Regional Office 7, together with our families, collectively manifest our deep concern over the bare, baseless, and unfounded statements of PLTCOL Jovy Espinido against the PNP as an organization, during the latest investigation in aid of legislation by the House of Representatives,” read a portion of the press release.

PRO-7 highlighted the dedication and sacrifices of its officers who work tirelessly to maintain peace and security in Central Visayas. The statement also emphasized that many officers have paid the ultimate price, losing their lives in the line of duty.

While acknowledging that a small number of officers may have strayed from their duties, PRO-7 underscored that this should not justify the sweeping generalization made by Espinido.

Moreover, the regional office challenged Espinido to present any evidence he might have of crimes committed by PNP members and to press charges accordingly.

PRO-7 assured the people of the region of their unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the police force and their zero tolerance for any misconduct by its members.

“With your support, PRO-7 will never tolerate any misdeed committed by any member of the police force,” read a portion of the statement. — (FREEMAN)