MANILA, Philippines- Contrary to his usual tough image, Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa showed his softer side and wept after learning that several police officers were allegedly linked to illegal drug trade during a Senate probe on Wednesday, November 23.
Dela Rosa became emotional after suspected Eastern Visayas drug lord Kerwin Espinosa implicated several members of the PNP to the illegal drug trade. Sacked CIDG director Superintendent Marvin Marcos, Chief Insp. Leo Laraga, and Supt. Santi Noel Matira were allegedly included in Espinosa’s payola.
PHOTO CREDIT: ABS-CBN News
Albuera Police Chief Inspector Jovie Espenido was accused by Espinosa of being his link to Senator Leila de Lima, who is suspected of receiving money from drug lords.
“Your honor, pinapasa-Diyos ko na lang yung sitwasyon namin sa PNP. Gustong gusto ko nang ma-reform yung PNP because mahal na mahal ko yung organization namin pero ako ay hirap na hirap na,” a weeping Dela Rosa told the Senate.
According to Dela Rosa, he can’t blame the public if they are losing trust on PNP as he himself find it difficult to determine whom to trust. But he also emphasized that he will continue the government’s war against drugs.
“I will never surrender…Kaya ko ito; hindi ko ito uurungan. Lilinisin ko ang PNP hanggang sa makakaya ko,” Dela Rosa added.
Dela Rosa also vowed to reform the PNP.
Senator Miguel Zubiri, who was seen comforting Dela Rosa, said there are already bills aiming to increase the salary of police officers. Meanwhile, former PNP chief Senator Panfilo Lacson urged Dela Rosa to act on the matter.
Watch the video.
Who is Ronald Dela Rosa?
Born on January 21, 1962 at Barangay Bato, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa is the Director General of the PNP beginning July 1, 2016. A former chief of the Davao City Police Office, he was handpicked by President Rodrigo Duterte to head the PNP.