DAVAO CITY – Davao Oriental 2nd District Representative Cheeno Almario supports the statement of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa to rid local government officials of the power to appoint their respective local police chiefs.
“It is best for the Philippine National Police (PNP) to install their choices for provincial directors and chiefs of police based on qualifications and merits to ensure utmost professionalism in their respective performance,” Almario said in a statement.
Almario said he believes that this is attainable given the measures instituted within the PNP to further professionalize their ranks in the past years.
“(These Include) the series of courses and certification programs they must take to qualify for higher-ranking positions, the lawmaker (Bato) is convinced that this method of career promotion inspires confidence in all levels of the police organization,” he said.
Also, Almario cited that promotions based on merit and exemplary records will address the common perception that the appointments to top positions in the PNP are politicized.
Section 51 of Republic Act 6975 states that governors and mayors can choose their provincial directors and chiefs of police, respectively, from a PNP list of nominees. (PNA)
