MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte’s pronouncement to place key institutions that train cadets and would-be policemen under its supervision.
“We have already submitted it (to Congress) as part of our modernization and reorganization bill,” PNP Chief Director Oscar Albayalde told reporters.
Albayalde reiterated his support for the plan to place the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) and the National Police Training Institute (NPTI) back under the control of the PNP.
“We thank and support the President (for his endorsement),” he said.
Once the measure is approved, the PNP chief said the institution would have better control over the curriculum and training of would-be policemen to make them more responsive to the PNP’s mission.
Meanwhile, Albayalde said military training for the PNP is unavoidable and is necessary as of this time.
“It is really very important. Military training is very important as our personnel at present bear firearms and wear uniforms. We are in a uniformed service,” Albayalde said, underscoring the need for improving unit discipline in the PNP.
Likewise, he pointed out that the PNP also takes part in high-risk operations on internal threats in the country.
“Remember we also undertake internal security operations and that is basically a military function,” he said.
Albayalde confirmed that they will reiterate their request to the Office of the President for military officials to include units from the PNP Special Action Force in the next Balikatan exercises. (PNA)
