PNoy interviews possible replacements for Purisima

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III has interviewed two potential successors of resigned Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Alan Purisima.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II said the President interviewed on Monday PNP Officer-in-Charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina and Deputy Director General Marcelo Garbo.

"Hiningi din niya 'yung kanilang mga record at siguro sa tamang panahon ay magpapasya siya," Roxas said in an interview with reporters during the turnover of command of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF).

Purisima resigned in February amid allegations that he orchestrated the anti-terror operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao that killed 44 SAF troopers.

Prior to his resignation, Purisima was suspended by the Ombudsman for six months over corruption allegations.

Roxas explained that the designation as a four-star general is still with Purisima since he only left the PNP chief post and not the institution itself.

"So, isa 'yan na pinaaral ng Pangulo, 'yung legalities ng ano ba ang mai-appoint niya dahil nga ayon sa batas, there can only be one four star sa PNP," Roxas said.

The interior chief said Aquino will appoint a new PNP chief at the proper time.