PNP training service chief warns trainees: ‘Never be involved in drugs’

MANILA, Philippines — “First and foremost that is my advice to them, never be involved in illegal drugs.”

This was the message of Brig. Gen. Rey Lyndon Lawas, head of the Philippine National Police Training Service (PNPTS), to 100 newly-accepted police recruits amid the controversial issue of law enforcers linked to drug recycling.

In an interview with reporters on Tuesday, Lawas said the PNPTS accepted more than 300 applicants to join the police service but only 100 recruits passed medical and physical examination.

Lawas said the 100 police trainees will  undergo training for a year.

After their oath-taking, the new recruits will undertake six months of basic training at a regional training center in Pampanga, Lawas said.

Lawas added that after six months of basic training, the new recruits will go through six more months of field training in various police stations.

The PNPTS will then evaluate the trainees’ performance which will determine if they will become permanent members of the PNP.

Asked if the “ninja cops” issue has affected the PNP’s recruitment Lawas said Filipinos still trust the police force.

“I do believe the Filipino people still have trust sa PNP organization. ‘Yung mga problema na ganyan is just part of the service [Problems like this is just part of the police service.],” he said.  /muf