TIME TO CLEAN UP THE POLICE RANKS, ANGARA URGES "BATO"

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Ronald Dela Rosa should consider himself "on probation" and use President Duterte's decision to retain him as a "great chance" to clean up the ranks of the PNP.

Sen. Sonny Angara said dela Rosa should "use what is basically a new tour of duty, to improve things in the national police."

"I think with what happened, the PNP Chief will be more motivated to turn this unfortunate incident into a big opportunity to reinstitute reforms in the PNP," Angara stressed, pointing out that "now is the best time to do it. The people will support bold reforms in the PNP. Bold not piecemeal."

Angara urged the PNP leadership to fire corrupt cops, and to file cases against them.

"The people are watching and they expect bold measures now that the police have already been put in the spotlight," said Angara.

The senator reminded Dela Rosa to impress upon his men that the President's support for the police covers lawful actions only.

"They should be reminded not to abuse his support. I think it has reached that point where the chief executive's support for the police has emboldened some to take shortcuts in law enforcement," Angara emphasized.

After hearing the news that a Korean trader abducted by policemen was strangled to death inside Camp Crame, the lawmaker said that "just everyone like else, I was deeply disturbed. It happened right inside Camp Crame which should probably be the safest place in the country."

"This undeniably drives home the issue of police corruption. And right there in the backyard of Dela Rosa," he added.

It will be recalled that Angara filed the Magna Carta for the PNP bill which seeks, among others, to establish a separate salary scale for the PNP to attract more qualified and competent law enforcers in the country.

The bill provides for additional benefits such as cost of living, clothing, quarters and subsistence allowances, longevity pay, reasonable leaves and retirement program.

Saying the latest controversy affects the centerpiece of the Duterte administration, Angara said: "Nararapat na maipakita ng liderato ng ating kapulisan na walang sasantohin sa imbestigasyon na gagawin. Hustisya para sa pamilya ng biktima ang dapat maging pangunahing layunin upang mapanagot ang mga sangkot. Ating isaisip na ang buong mundo ay nakasubaybay, at tahimik na nagmamanman."