Cops receive P500K reward

In the midst of the pandemic, we need to show to the whole of Valenzuela that we do not stop and we do not shy away from our campaign against illicit drugs

Fifty-nine policemen received cash incentives totaling P500,000 from the Valenzuela City Government.

The Valenzuela Public Information Office said the amount was awarded to honor their efforts in securing the conviction of individuals involved in five drug-related cases from 2014 to 2019.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us to honor our police force who worked hard until every drug suspect was convicted, assuring that those who violate our ordinances and laws will be imprisoned and punished,” Valenzuela Vice Mayor Lorie Borja said.

“In the midst of the pandemic, we need to show to the whole of Valenzuela that we do not stop and we do not shy away from our campaign against illicit drugs,” she added.

Mayor Rex Gatchalian stressed the city government gave incentives to the police, not because they were able to pull the pushers out of the streets, but because they were able to see the case through until conviction.

“It is a long, tedious process. It does not end upon the arrest. They (police) should strengthen the cases filed to secure conviction. Then, we can permanently get these pushers off the streets,” Gatchalian said.

The awarding of cash incentives is mandated under Valenzuela City Ordinance 285, Series of 2016, or the “Reward System in Drug Cases Ordinance.”

Members who took part in the conduct of a drug operation and further participated in the court proceedings will receive an amount equivalent to 70 percent of the total amount of the reward for every conviction. The cash incentives awarded ranged from P2,700 to P70,000.