MANILA, Philippines — Valenzuela City Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian urged the current Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership to emulate the style of former PNP Director General Panfilo "Ping" Lacson in disciplining the police force.
Lacson headed the police force from November 1999 to January 2001. His leadership was praised for his no-nonsense approach to discipline in the police organization, Gatchalian noted.
He said that during Lacson's time as PNP chief, he launched a campaign against cops who were inept, corrupt and undisciplined, or "ICU" cops. The campaign significantly contributed in bringing back order in the police force, Gatchalian said.
"General Lacson's leadership by example during his stint as PNP chief has brought back the pride and dignity of police officers," he said. "They know for a fact that their commander is quick to reward those who risk their lives fighting criminals while also being just as quick to punish those who are involved in criminal activities."
Gatchalian's statement was a reacton to policemen involved in kidnapping operation along EDSA, a major thoroughfare in Metro Manila, on September 1.
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He suggested review and reform of discipline mechanisms of the current PNP leadership.
"It will be very difficult for the country to attract foreign investors and tourists when the people who are tasked to maintain peace and order are the ones involved in high profile crimes," Gatchalian said.
"This is a scary thought for all of us in this country because we can no longer know whom to trust," he added.
Lacson was elected senator in 2001 and was in office until 2013. He now serves as presidential assistant on rehabilitation and recovery tasked to spearhead efforts to revive areas and communities ravaged by Supertyphoon Yolanda in 2013.