900 PNP officers evaluated by review panel – Azurin

MANILA, Philippines — Over 900 ranking police officers who submitted their courtesy resignations have been evaluated by the five-man advisory committee headed by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin.

Azurin said the figure represents about 90 percent of the generals and colonels who heeded the call of resignation by Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr.

“We have submitted our recommendation, which will be reviewed by the National Police Commission (Napolcom),” Azurin said on Wednesday.

He refused to comment when asked if they have recommended the acceptance of the resignations of some officials, saying he does not want to preempt the decision of President Marcos, who has the final say on the matter.

Azurin said their findings would undergo another set of review by the Napolcom, which in turn will submit its own report to Marcos.

“Upon review by the Napolcom, it will be forwarded to the President who will determine whether to deny or accept the courtesy resignation,” the PNP chief said.

Azurin said they are hoping to complete the review before he retires on April 24.

Earlier, PNP public information officer Col. Redrico Marcanan said a total of 955 third level officers are covered by the review.

The other members of the PNP panel are Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, former defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro, retired police general Isagani Nerez and former Court of Appeals associate justice Melchor Sadang.