Alvarez backtracks call for Bato’s resignation
MANILA — House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez is backtracking on his call for Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa to resign amid the controversial kidnap-slay of a Korean businessman.
In a radio interview on Monday, Alvarez said dela Rosa should just devote his undivided attention to the task of eliminating the scalawags in the police force.
Alvarez made the statement after President Rodrigo Duterte said there is no need for dela Rosa to resign and that he still enjoys his full trust and confidence.
“I have said my piece and I would have to agree with those who have suggested to give the chief PNP a chance to fix the problems that the PNP is currently facing right now,” Alvarez said.
The House leader earlier urged dela Rosa to leave his post following reports that the Korean victim, Ick-Joo Jee, was killed “under his nose” inside the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, saying this is necessary to spare Duterte from further embarrassment.
Alvarez, who attended the 55th birthday celebration of dela Rosa in Camp Crame on Sunday along with the president, clarified that his call for the embattled PNP chief’s resignation was nothing personal. He said he respects Duterte’s decision.
“I would just like to clarify that there is a separation between our friendship and work. I was invited by General Bato in his birthday party, so I went there as his friend,” Alvarez said.