‘Bato’: No letup in fight vs terrorism, drugs, street crimes

Philippine National Police Chief Director General Ronald “Bato’ dela Rosa
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA

Following the recent bombing in Davao City that took lives of 14 persons, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Dir. Gen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa reminded his men not to let their guard down against terrorism amid the PNP’s intensified anti-illegal drugs drive.

“Following the recent Davao bombing, we must be more vigilant and alert against all forms of violence,” dela Rosa said at the celebration of 115th Police Service Anniversary in Camp General Simeon Ola in Legazpi City on Friday.

“Bear in mind that we are not focusing our efforts only on the drug problem. Terrorism is once more rearing its ugly head, and we cannot afford to let our guard down now,” dela Rosa said in his speech.

READ: Bato on possible bombing in Manila: ‘Only God knows’

The police chief also ordered the cops not to neglect their other duties in addressing street crimes, robbery, and car theft, amid their efforts in helping the government solve the drug menace.

“Hindi rin natin pwedeng pabayaan ang iba pang problema gaya ng simpleng street crimes, robbery, carnapping, at iba pang krimen na nagdadala na panganib sa buhay ng ating mga kababayan (We also cannot forget our others problems like street crimes, robberies and car theft which endanger the lives of the people),” he said.

Dela Rosa then shifted to his “expectations” from the police in the performance of their duties, including their attitude when manning checkpoints.

“I want you to always man the police checkpoints with dignity and patience. ‘Wag kayong maiinis kapag may mga pasaway na mga motorist (Don’t lose your cool when there are stubborn motorists). Show them who the better guys are by doing your work with utmost professionalism and integrity,” he said.

The PNP implemented stricter checkpoint operations nationwide after President Rodrigo Duterte placed the country under a state of lawless violence following the deadly explosion at a night market on Roxas Avenue in Davao City.

READ: ‘Bato’ places PNP on full alert nationwide after Davao explosion

“I will not tire in repeating that every police operative is under strict orders to ensure the protection of human rights and the observance of courtesy in dealing with motorists passing through security checks. Follow strictly our revised police operational procedures,” he added. IDL