EDITORIAL - In defense of Natu-el
It's easy to understand why Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama continues to oppose the designation of Senior Superintendent Mariano Natu-el as director of Cebu City Police Office. Natu-el is not his choice for CCPO's top post and until now he still harboring grudges against the Philippine National Police leadership for not acting on his request.
In his second term, Rama said he wanted a new city police chief. But it seems his wish will never be granted as the regional police office issued a memorandum recently designating Natu-el as permanent director of CCPO.
Now the mayor, upset with the order, seems to be well on his way to halt the city government's monthly fuel and financial allowance to the city police. “Binuang ilang gihimo,†Rama said of the PNP memorandum.
But before Rama can make any move that would affect the efficiency of the city police force, he should look at whether Natu-el had perfectly delivered the goods. It's better for the mayor to examine how the current city police director performs his job, whether Natu-el fared below public expectation.
However, as far as his handling of the city police is concerned, many consider Natu-el as perfect for the job. Based on his performance, there is no questioned that he runs the CCPO well.
The fact that the city police force was able to solve major crimes of late can only attest to Natu-el's capability of handling the CCPO. So why replace him when he is doing a good job?
Rama should reconsider his move to drive Natu-el out of CCPO. While he has the authority under the law to appoint whomever he wants to lead the city police, he should also consider the fact that the CCPO is in good hands under Natu-el.
As the public sees it, it is pride that dictates Rama. But the mayor has nothing to lose if Natu-el would stay in his post knowing the fact that it is the people who are benefitting from his good handling of the city police force.
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