MANILA, Philippines – Manila Police District chief Roberto Rosales Wednesday warned his men against hogging the office phone lines while on duty.

“I issued the directive so our policemen can entertain all calls, especially those coming from people who need our help,” Rosales told the Inquirer.

The MPD chief said he has received information that many of his men spend much of their time in the office talking on the police hotline, making it difficult for people calling for help to get through.

Rosales cited the recent robbery at St. Scholastica’s College where security officers were unable to call up the nearest police station because the line was busy.

“To avoid such incidents or from receiving such complaints, I reminded our policemen to keep phone lines open and refrain from taking personal calls.

“I’m also holding all station commanders responsible,” he added.