Eleazar orders unhinged cops monitoring

The Philippines’ top cop on Monday ordered his officers to monitor the mental health and overall wellbeing of police officers under their command following violent incidents involving uniformed personnel.

General Guillermo Eleazar issued the directive amid the alleged suicide attempt by a police trainee who was found with an alleged self-inflicted wound at the rooftop of their boarding house in Rosario, Cavite.

While all policemen are required to undergo neuro-psychiatric examinations regularly, Eleazar also urged police officials to be on the lookout for telltale signs that the men and women under their command may be suffering from emotional distress and, therefore, may need counseling or treatment.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been reeling from cop-related violent incidents, including those involving SMSgt. Jonel Nuezca and MSgt. Hensie Zinampan fatally shooting their neighbors in Tarlac and Quezon City in December 2020 and last week, respectively.

Depressed police trainee in ‘suicide’ attempt using his trainer’s gun.

An initial report said the 25-year-old trainee from the PNP Maritime Group used the firearm of his field training officer, CMSgt. Erwin Yaza, in shooting himself in the head.

The trainee, reportedly suffering from depression, may have broken into Yaza’s room, according to the report.

“This is why I reiterate the importance of subjecting all personnel to neuro-psychiatric tests to determine if they are mentally and emotionally capable of being part of the organization,” Eleazar said.

“This test will greatly help in preventing personnel from inflicting harm on themselves or other people,” the PNP chief said. He directed the immediate superiors of the trainee to monitor him closely and to extend any assistance he may need.