Palace to Duterte: Observe due process in axing ‘corrupt’ PNP execs

Malacañang on Sunday said that while President-elect Rodrigo Duterte has a free hand in weeding out allegedly corrupt officials in the Philippine National Police (PNP), he should still be guided by the principle of due process enshrined in the law.

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said that any move stopping corruption in the government should be supported.

“Isa sa mga mahahalagang haligi ng administrasyong Aquino ang pagsugpo sa katiwalian sa lahat ng antas at ahensiya ng gobyerno, kabilang na ang Pambansang Pulisya. Anumang hakbang hinggil sa pagkamit ng hangaring ito ay dapat bigyan ng suporta.”

(One of the most important pillars in the Aquino administration is the fight against corruption in all levels and agency of government, including the National Police. Any step towards this endeavor should be supported.)

“Ang panawagan ni President-elect Duterte sa ilang miyembro ng PNP ay kabilang sa kanyang prerogative bilang halal na Pangulo. Magkagayunpaman, anumang pagkilos laban sa katiwalian ay marapat pa ring tumalima sa tamang proseso alinsunod sa mga isinasaad ng batas,” Coloma said in an interview on radio dzRB.

(Duterte’s call to some members of the PNP is one of his prerogatives as president-elect. However, any action against corruption should go through due process according to law.)

Coloma issued the statement following Duterte’s warning on Saturday to three high-ranking police officers accused of being corrupt.

Speaking during his thanksgiving party in Davao, Duterte urged the officials to resign or risk being humiliated.

“Corruption must stop. I would have to ask about three generals diyan sa (Camp) Crame to resign. Do not wait for me to name you in public because I will only humiliate you,” Duterte told his more than 500,000 supporters who showed up for the party.

READ: Duterte warns 3 ‘corrupt’ PNP officers: Resign or be humiliated

The tough-talking mayor once said last February that there are three high-ranking PNP officials who are involved with illegal drugs.

However, these generals were not named. JE

READ: Duterte alleges high-ranking PNP officials have drug ties