By Martin Sadongdong
Reforms and programs at the Philippine National Police (PNP) will continue to be implemented under the strict guidance of outgoing National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Oscar Albayalde once he assumes office as the country's next top cop.
National Capital Region Police Office chief C/Supt. Oscar David Albayalde
(CAMILLE ANTE / MANILA BULLETIN)
In a video phone interview with reporters, Albayalde thanked President Duterte for his "trust" and "faith" in him, as he promised to continue PNP's major programs including the war on drugs and internal cleansing.
"Continuity is what's really important and we will see to it that what has been started now will be continued even after my service to the PNP," said Albayalde, who is expected to meet outgoing chief PNP Director General Ronald dela Rosa in Iloilo today.
Likewise, in official statement sent to reporters last night, Albayalde vowed that he will do his "very best to fill the big shoes that will be left by Director General Ronald dela Rosa."
"I will do my very best to fill the big shoes that will be left by Director General Ronald dela Rosa. Under my watch, the PNP will work side by side with you to help fulfill your promise of genuine change for the Filipino people, and of a more disciplined and better police force," Albayalde stated.
Duterte yesterday announced that he chose Albayalde to be the next chief of the PNP.
Albayalde, for his part, said he will bring to a national level all the basic reform programs that he has implemented at the NCRPO and swore to prepare the PNP in responding to the needs of the public "at all times."
"I seek your continued support so that together, we may build a police force worthy of your trust and confidence," he said.
Over the past months, Albayalde led a series of surprise inspections which led to the sacking of several Metro Manila cops due to unsolved killings, cops who were caught either sleeping, drinking or not in their proper uniform at the time of their duty, and dirty police stations among other issues.
In a separate statement, Dela Rosa confirmed that he personally recommended Albayalde to Duterte, among other prospects, to be the next chief of the PNP.
"Continue the fight! I recommended Gen. Albayalde to be the next chief, PNP in order for this government to have a continuity in the war on drugs and our internal cleansing program," said Dela Rosa, who is a "mistah" (classmate) of Albayalde in the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986.
Meanwhile, Chief Supt. John Bulalacao, PNP spokesperson, said the 190,000-strong PNP will give its full support to the leadership of Albayalde.
Before heading the NCRPO, Albayalde also became part of the Special Action Force, the Pampanga Police Regional Office (PRO) and the Directorate for Plans at Camp Crame in Quezon City.