PNP chief Alan Purisima. AP file photo
Lawmakers are asking resigned Police Director General Alan Purisima to keep his hands off in the selection process for the next Philippine National Police chief.
“Purisima has been totally discredited with the public due to the graft allegations against him as well as his role in the Mamasapano debacle. If he has any regard for the credibility of the PNP, he would do well to stay away from the selection process for the new PNP chief,” said ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio.
Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said the President should not allow Purisima to influence the selection process just like when he allowed the then suspended PNP chief to participate in the planning for the Mamasapano operation in December last year.
“The President should realize that Purisima has damaged the institution and that the police have a very low morale after what Purisima has done. These intramurals or jockeying for position is natural but the President must make sure his choice will help unify the force,” said Zarate.
Purisima is reportedly backing his protégé, PNP Director Ricardo Marquez, who was promoted twice to juicy positions under Purisima’s watch in the PNP.
Purisima was forced to resign in February this year in the middle of inquiries into his role in the failed mission to arrest terrorists in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, which led to the death of 44 Special Action Force members.
The President has not yet named a permanent replacement for Purisima. The acting PNP Chief, Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina, is expected to retire next month and after which the President is expected to name the next PNP chief.