Dela Rosa not going on early retirement

Director General Ronald dela Rosa has put an end to the rumors that he would go on an early retirement to give way to another police official who is also close to President Duterte to become the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“I cannot just give up my position. I would be doing a great disservice to the country if I just leave just to give way to him,” Dela Rosa told reporters in an interview.

Dela Rosa is referring to Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario, the number two man of the PNP being the deputy chief for Administration. Apolinario, it was recalled, was among the three top choices of Duterte as chief PNP last year.

Dela Rosa’s statement came amid rumors that have been circulating for several weeks now that he would retire early to give Apolinario a chance.

Dela Rosa is set to retire in January next year while Apolinario will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 in August next year.

“Honestly, I want him to be happy. He is also deserving to become the top honcho of the PNP,” said Dela Rosa.

“But I have to wait for any instruction from Malacanang if they say I have to go to give way, but if there is no advice, it would be difficult to do it,” said dela Rosa.

Dela Rosa, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1986 is described as more focused on operational aspect of policing while Apolinario, a PMA Class 1985 member, is more on the management aspect of the police.

Apolinario is said to be instrumental in getting the support of the entire PMA Class 1985 members in the PNP to rally behind Dela Rosa whose appointment was questioned by some using the issue of seniority.

The last PNP chief appointed before Dela Rosa is a member of PMA Class 1982.