New PRO-7 chief targets filthy toilets

CEBU, Philippines — All 126 police precinct chiefs in Central Visayas are warned to maintain clean comfort rooms, otherwise they will be relieved.

Before getting rid of dirty cops and scalawags, new Police Regional Office-7 Director Chief Superintendent Debold Sinas wants to clean up all filthy toilets in the region.

Sinas urged police officers and non-uniformed personnel assigned in all precincts to work together in maintaining cleanliness, saying it should be a top priority.

"Particular ko anang sa CR. If imong CR pangit, wala gyud nada na. Ikaw musulod baka nga inyong CR pangit? Maski pinobre bahalag gamay, basta limpyo wala'y hugaw or baho, okay lang na. Imo gyud na permi limpyuhan," he said.

Sinas said an unclean toilet could affect the image of police force.

A dirty toilet would be among the bases in relieving a station commander, he said.

A station commander, however, will still be given the chance to defend himself/herself and undergo due process, he said.

Following his first round of inspection, Sinas felt elated after seeing clean toilets in several police units in Cebu City Police Office and Lapu-Lapu City Police Office.

Aside from maintaining clean toilets, Sinas said policemen should avoid bringing and using their own mobile phones while on duty.

Also, the proper wearing of uniform was among Sinas' directives after he assumed office this week.

Sinas said, as officers of the law, they must be seen as good example for the public, adding that Philippine National Police Director General Oscar Albaylde has set himself as an example for his men to emulate.

Sinas vowed to discipline and empower police personnel in the region.

During his first day, Sinas said police scalawags especially those who are involved in illegal drugs have no place in the region.

In fact, 74 key officials and 115 officers (ranks of police officer 1 to senior police officer 3) were subjected to a surprise drug test.

All of them were tested negative. — KBQ (FREEMAN)