false>Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada on Wednesday, June 18 said he supports the reform initiatives that newly appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III is implementing, saying that ramping up efforts on police response is not only necessary but long overdue.

false>Estrada, chairman of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation, said it is important that the country’s police force gains the public trust. 

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada (Facebook)

false>Mahalagang-mahalaga na may tiwala ang publiko sa kapulisan. Kapag nakikita nilang may integridad at propesyonalismo ang mga pulis, mas magiging bukas ang mga tao na makipagtulungan sa paglaban sa krimen at sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan sa ating mga komunidad (It is very important that the public has trust in the police force. When they see that the police have integrity and professionalism, people will be more open to cooperating in fighting crime and maintaining order in our communities),” said Estrada.

false>Estrada, who earlier expressed reservations on Torre’s appointment, said he has been closely monitoring the policy changes in the country’s police force the new PNP chief implemented and acknowledged that revamps are necessary during these challenging times.

false>He said Torre’s early actions show a deep understanding of the much-needed and urgent reforms needed by the institution. 

false>“Leadership is not about grandstanding – it’s about knowing where to take the institution and having the courage to make tough calls,” the senator said. 

false>The lawmaker particularly referred to Torre’s decision to relieve key police officials who failed to meet his five-minute police response time benchmark.

false>Estrada also said he approves Torre’s eight-hour work shift policy for police officers that would allow law enforcers to enjoy better work-life balance. 

false>This change, he said, may help ensure they remain focused and engaged while on duty, ultimately benefitting both the officers and the communities they serve. 

false>Estrada also highlighted the need to ensure the welfare and morale of rank-and-file officers by balancing just treatment and incentives for those who serve with integrity.