The chief of the 160,000-strong Philippine National Police has vowed full support to any move by President Duterte to declare Martial Law.
“By all means, we will support the President if he declares,” said PNP chief Director General Ronald M. dela Rosa.
However, Dela Rosa said he would be a key instrument in preventing the abuses of Martial Law similar to those committed by security forces during the time of President Ferdinand E. Marcos.
Dela Rosa said he and his father had personal experience on the abuse the power the police and military committed under Martial Law.
He said a machine gun was placed in front of him and several other friends after they were arrested for violating the curfew. The PNP chief said he cried because he thought they would be subjected to firing squad.
“My father was also a victim of Martial Law so I really know how harsh really is the Martial Law if it is abused by the authorities,” said Dela Rosa.
“But if ever he (Duterte) will do that option, and until I am the Chief PNP, I will do everything to make sure that it would not be abused,” he said. (Aaron B. Recuenco)