Malacañang stressed yesterday that the planned crackdown on corrupt policemen by President-elect Rodrigo R. Duterte is a praiseworthy goal but must still comply with due process.
Presidential Communications Operations Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said they support a continuity of the anti-corruption campaign as long as this within the bounds of law.
“Ang panawagan ni President-elect Duterte sa ilang miyembro ng PNP (Philippine National Police) ay kabilang sa kanyang prerogative bilang halal na Pangulo,” Coloma said over government radio.
“Magkagayunpaman, anumang pagkilos laban sa katiwalian ay marapat pa ring tumalima sa tamang proseso alinsunod sa mga isinasaad ng batas,” he added.
Duterte recently called on three high-ranking police generals suspected of corruption to resign or risk being humiliated in public. The incoming president lashed out at the alleged involvement of some policemen in illegal drugs during a thanksgiving celebration in Davao City last Saturday night.
“Corruption must stop. I would have to ask about three generals in (Camp) Crame to resign. Do not wait for me to name you in public because I will only humiliate you,” the tough-talking leader warned.
Coloma recognized that Duterte’s anti-corruption efforts as a continuity of the efforts of the Aquino administration.
“Isa sa mga mahahalagang haligi ng administrasyong Aquino ang pagsugpo sa katiwalian sa lahat ng antas at ahensiya ng pamahalaan kabilang na ang Pambansang Pulisya. Anumang hakbang hinggil sa pagkamit ng hangaring ito ay kinakailangang bigyan ng suporta,” Coloma said. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)