Marcos to new PNP generals: No room for corruption

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday said there is no room for corruption among the police in the so-called new Philippines, as he swore in nearly 60 generals of the Philippine National Police (PNP), which recently faced backlash over the deaths of two minors at the hands of law enforcers.

Marcos called on police generals to prioritize dialogue, collaboration and cooperation with communities and to nurture “a bond of mutual respect and support,” where the people have faith and confidence in their police force.

“To achieve this, it is imperative that we reiterate our zero-tolerance policy for corruption and human rights abuses within the PNP and, for that matter, in all of government,” Marcos said.

“In the new Philippines that we will establish, there is no room for corruption, abuse of power and other illegal activities in the police,” he added.

Marcos reminded the star-rank police officers that they are responsible for ensuring that all PNP personnel uphold the “highest standards of ethics, professionalism and respect for human rights.”

“I also expect that you will lead by example so that every officer and member under your command will adhere to these same principles,” the Chief Executive said.

Last month, the PNP drew flak over the killing of two minors in Navotas and Rizal.

Jerhode Baltazar, 17, was shot dead on Aug. 2 by Navotas City Police Station personnel who mistook him for a suspect.

Eighteen days later, John Ompad, 15, was killed by a policeman in Rodriguez, Rizal.

The PNP has assured Baltazar and Ompad’s families that justice will be served.

The Marcos administration also had to deal with the alleged involvement of some police officials in the illegal drug trade.

In July, the Presidential Communications Office announced that the President accepted the resignation of 18 high-ranking police officials implicated in the illegal drug trade.

Marcos said the Filipino people expect to see reforms under the leadership of police generals, including positive changes that would make the PNP more capable, responsive and truly corruption-free.

“The foundation of effective law enforcement is public trust rooted in constant and open public engagement,” he added.

Marcos also reiterated his promise to modernize the PNP and to equip its forces with the latest technology, training and resources to bolster their capabilities.

Fifty-five police generals took their oath before Marcos yesterday.

Reorganize

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos has welcomed the filing of a Senate bill aimed at reorganizing the PNP.

Abalos said Senate Bill 2449, authored by Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, will help make the police organization more responsive to current challenges in law enforcement.

This will be the first comprehensive legislative reform for the PNP after 25 years since the PNP Reorganization Act of 1998.

The Senate bill is a counterpart measure of House Bill 8327 approved on third and final reading in August. - Romina Cabrera