Napolcom OKs Espina as acting PNP chief

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Police officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina can now sign and approve day-to-day official transactions in the PNP after the National Police Commission (Napolcom) has approved his authority as the temporary chief of the police force.

Espina replaced PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima, who was suspended for six months last December while under investigation for plunder and graft charges.

In a resolution dated Jan. 6, the Napolcom authorized Espina to “act on or approve urgent, necessary or time-bound transactions, disbursements or activities.”

Espina is authorized to act on transactions, especially those that may cause damage and prejudice to the public or hamper the PNP’s function if not immediately addressed, Napolcom vice chairman and executive officer Eduardo Escueta said.

He also said upon termination of Espina’s status as officer-in-charge, he is required to submit a written report on all transactions, disbursements and activities approved or entered into by the PNP during his term.

Purisima’s preventive suspension will end in July, which is when Espina would retire upon reaching the retirement age of 56. Purisima is set to retire in November.