Duterte wants to further extend Dela Rosa’s term as PNP chief

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, February 20, announced his plan to further extend the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald dela Rosa, who is set to retire on April 21.

“General Dela Rosa, popularly called Bato, will have an extended term,” Duterte said during the induction of the new board of directors of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce (Phil.) Inc. held at the Palace’s Rizal Hall.

Dela Rosa was originally set to retire on January 21, when he reached the mandatory retirement age of 56 for uniformed personnel.

But in December last year, Duterte as commander-in-chief ordered Dela Rosa to stay as police chief for another three months.

Dela Rosa in January confirmed that his term has been extended until April 21.

In his latest pronouncement, Duterte stressed that he still needs Dela Rosa “for a little bit longer” to address the pressing issues hounding the PNP.

The President said he believes the incumbent PNP chief could help him “institute continuing reforms” within the police organization.

“The police has always been a problem. But they are not (that many). There are scoundrels, scalawags in every organization,” he said.

“That is why the PNP (chief) now who is supposed to retire in April, and because he enjoys my trust and confidence, I will extend his term for a little bit longer,” he added.

Dela Rosa, during the Philippine Military Academy homecoming in Baguio City on February 17, said he is ready to vacate his post after his term expires in April, unless Duterte tells him to continue his service.