PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde answers questions from reporters
After facing two Senate hearings, Philippine National Police Chief Oscar Albayalde said there was still no hard evidence linking him to rogue policemen.
Albayalde again challenged his critics to come up with concrete proof instead of subjecting his organization to trial by publicity.
“Kayo na po ang magsabi kung meron ba o wala ni isa na proof. That’s why the president is very clear on this,” Albayalde said.
Albayalde thanked the president for his support and insisted his fate is now in Duterte’s hands.
He will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on November 8.
“Whether you like it or not, I will retire,” Albayalde said.
He also called the Senate to release the entire contents of the executive sessions, amid rumors that former police officer and now Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong recommended names for the next PNP chief.
Magalong was asked to testify at the Senate on the so-called ninja-cops or policemen engaged in recycling seized narcotics.
“There is always that internal struggle din sa amin sa PNP…most especially the top or yung pinakamataas na position sa Philippine National Police,” Albayalde said.
On Monday, Albayalde said the controversial 2013 drug operation in Pampanga will be reviewed.
Albayalde was dragged into the drug recycling scandal after Magalong testified that he tried to intervene in the case of his former subordinates.
“I have directed the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management to take the lead in reviewing the administrative cases involving the so-called ninja cops in coordination with the internal affairs service to initiate possible summary dismissal proceedings against these errant personnel…no stone will be left unturned and there will be no sacred cows in this investigation,” Albayalde said.
Albayalde himself will be the subject of an investigation headed by Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año.
President Duterte had tasked the DILG Chief to conduct the probe before making a decision on the PNP chief.
“We’re still waiting for the orders of the Secretary for the investigation of General Albayalde,” DILG Usec. Ricojudge Echiverri said.
President Duterte is expected to name Albayalde’s successor before the end of the month. (Jasper Camilo)