Aguirre vows to repay Duterte’s trust in him by reforming PNP

(FILE PHOTO) President Rodrigo Duterte and then-Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II INQUIRER / JOAN BONDOC

MANILA, Philippines — National Police Commission (Napolcom) vice chairman and executive officer Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday vowed to fulfill President Rodrigo Duterte’s orders to transform the Philippine National Police into a unit “that can truly serve and that can truly protect our people.”

In a speech at the PNP’s 30th anniversary at Camp Crame, the official said that meeting the President’s expectations was his way to repay Duterte for his trust and confidence in him.

“I commit all my God-given talents and abilities and even my sacred honor to live up to our dear President’s expectations. With the providence and guidance of the Almighty and the political will of our President, it can be done and it will be done,” he said.

Aguirre called on the police force to support him in formulating policies for the betterment of the PNP.

“I cannot do it alone. I need the help and support of everyone. Maaasahan ko po ba kayo?” he said.

Aguirre was first appointed by Duterte as his first Justice Secretary but later resigned due to various controversies linked to him, like his agency’s dismissal of charges against drug suspects Peter Lim and Kerwin Espinosa.

Duterte and Aguirre were classmates and fraternity brothers at the San Beda law school.

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