Purisima Aquino’s choice for PNP top post, says Roxas

Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Alan Purisima. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Alan Purisima is President Benigno Aquino III’s man for the top post of the Philippine National Police, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II said Tuesday.

“I support Purisima. This is the consensus. The President, I believe also, is supporting incoming PNP chief,’’ Roxas told reporters in an ambush interview. “My discussions with the President is that it’s Alan Purisima,” he added.

Director General Nicanor Bartolome has agreed to the President’s suggestion that he go on non-duty status before the end of the year to allow for his early replacement and smooth preparations for the May 2013 vote, Roxas said.

Bartolome has indicated a desire to retire on March 16 next year, when he turns 56, to enjoy full benefits. But the President said this would be too close to the May elections, and too late to appoint his replacement because of the election ban.