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Monday, July 28, 2003
Speak out: Police setbacks
By JESSON J. MORATA
Blk. 6 San Miguel, Pusok, Lapu-Lapu City
The recent events have worsened the already tarnished image of the Philippine National Police.
In Lapu-Lapu City, some police officers were tagged as protectors of the drug trade.
In the PNP general headquarters, three of the most wanted terrorists escaped. This, despite the said tight security of their detention cells.
The escape was also a big blow to the country’s campaign against global terorrism. Worse, speculations have now surfaced that money was involved. Some members of the Senate and the House of Representatives are now calling on the top officials of the PNP to step down because of their negligence.
In Cebu City, a police officer was shot and killed while he was in pursuit of a suspected snatcher who was also killed. The police chief, for not heeding the mayor’s order lost his post. The day after, the mayor eventually changed his mind and gave the chief another chance.
As the government recently intensified its campaign against illegal drugs, police elements were able to round up drug pushers and syndicates as well as successfully raided illegal drug factories.
On the other hand, many police officials have been tagged as illegal drug and gambling protectors.
Will the PNP ever clean up its image?
In fairness to those police officers who are doing their job, they deserve commendation. It was unfortunate, though, that a police officer did his job and responded to the call of duty ended up losing his life.
The setbacks that have bombarded the PNP should be a stern wakeup call for the police.
Police work is not a mere job but a vocation and a responsibility.
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