PNP chief: Command responsibility is the norm in anti-illegal drugs ops

NATIONAL Police chief Director General Oscar D. Albayalde has reminded anew all policemen involved in implementing anti-illegal drugs operations to strictly adhere to existing policies and guidelines set by the police top leadership.

In a memorandum, Albayalde ordered police regional directors to ensure that the selection and vetting procedures are properly observed in the activation and organization of drug-enforcement units in all levels with a quarterly evaluation to assure credibility.

All regional directors were also ordered to supervise anti-illegal drugs operations, especially in the arrest of high-value targets and other drug suspects within their areas of responsibility in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

At the same time, all unit commanders were also reminded to supervise and monitor the operations and activities of their anti-illegal drugs units against possible irregularities that often affect the image of the PNP.

Albayalde said the policies and guidelines should ensure that operating units should avoid lapses and ensure an efficient supervision of police subordinates during operations.

“As we focus on the upcoming 2019 midterm elections [in May], the PNP is also upgrading its wellsustained mechanism to intensify our relentless crusade against illegal drugs,” Albayalde said.

The PNP issued the reiteration of the standing policies and guidelines following the arrest of two antiillegal drugs policemen from Pasay and Pasig Cities in robber y/extortion cases last week.

The guidelines stated that command responsibility should be the norm in the field, and that unit commanders, team leaders and supervisors should closely monitor and supervise the activities of their units and personnel.

“Every PNP personnel must be given specific duties to as an agent of change in the community, he must know and report his neighbors who are involved in illegal drugs and crime,” Albayalde said.

On the issue of human rights, Albayalde assured the PNP is responsive to the requirements of due process, rule of law and human rights in all police operations, adding these are deeply rooted in the police doctrine, systems and procedures.