Espina: I didn’t want to get in Aquino’s way of choosing new PNP chief

PNP officer in charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina. FILE PHOTO

Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina finally broke his silence Friday and explained why he had offered his resignation to President Benigno Aquino III.

READ:  Aquino confirms, but can’t accept yet, Espina resignation

“I didn’t want to get in the way of President Aquino’s free hand in appointing a new Chief PNP, thus, I earlier signified intention to be relieved as Officer-in-Charge of the PNP,” Espina said in a statement to reporters.

“I am, therefore, humbled by the continued expression of trust and confidence of President Benigno S. Aquino III in reaffirming my continued designation as PNP Officer-in-Charge,” he added.

Espina also thanked Aquino for “his responsiveness to the pressing desire” of the police force to have a full-time PNP chief.

But while the President has yet to appoint the leader of the 150,000-strong force, Espina urged his colleagues in the PNP “to rally behind the new leader whom President Aquino will name soon.”

“Until then, as your Officer-in-Charge, I am duty-bound to lead the organization as we continue to move on,” he continued.

Espina also thanked Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, who chairs the National Police Commission, for giving him extended authority as PNP OIC.

Last week, the Napolcom gave Espina additional powers, allowing him to sign documents for the procurement of firearms, explosives, ammunition and other weapon systems for PNP members.

READ: While PNP remains headless, Napolcom gives Espina extra power

“For my part, I offer President Aquino and the national leadership my sincerest personal pledge of professional commitment to the mission of the PNP to serve and protect the people,” he added.

Several media outlets, including INQUIRER.net, came out with reports on Thursday quoting high-ranking police officials saying Espina tendered his resignation a month before his promotion as the PNP’s second in command, which took effect on April 14.

READ: Espina has resigned as PNP-OIC—source

These reports were denied by PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr., stressing that the organization does not give attention to rumors and unconfirmed reports. IDL