Duterte pledges P2B to raise police capability

A day after he rained down expletives on alleged “crooked” policemen, President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday pledged more than P2 billion to enhance the capability of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“I would like to emphasize that the PNP has the government’s full support […] and is fully committed to enhancing your capability,” he said during the 117th National Service Anniversary celebration at the PNP national headquarters.

“In fact, we have allotted more than P2 billion for the PNP capability enhancement plan,” he added.

Duterte earlier threatened to kill 102 alleged unruly police officers involved in illegal activities on national television.

READ: In profanity-laden outburst, Duterte threatens to kill ‘crooked cops’

But he has also reiterated his support to the police force as the government continues its war on illegal drugs.

He also told policemen to “not hesitate to kill” should they feel their lives are in danger during anti-drug operations.

“When your life is in danger, and you feel that really you will die and leave a family fatherless, do not hesitate to kill because of the case,” Duterte said, adding that he is willing to “help out” if the police action is in accordance with the law.

“I will never allow you to go to jail. Just do your duty wala kayong isipin (you don’t have to think of anything). I will provide the lawyer for you,” he said. /ee

READ: After threatening to kill crooked cops, Duterte gives P25M for cops’ meds