Espina to retire Thursday, says goodbye to PNP

“Turnover of check donation to the families of Gallant SAF 44, wounded-in-action, and survivors” (PNP PIO)

MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) officer in charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina attended his last flag-raising ceremony with the PNP Monday morning.

In his speech, he thanked members and officials of the PNP for helping him — especially the past seven months of his service, which proved to be the most challenging part of his career.

Espina also bade goodbye to his comrades in the police force and expressed his gratitude to the media and communities who have helped the various operations of the PNP.

Espina served as the officer in charge of the PNP after General Alan Purisima was suspended by the Ombudsman over graft charges.

Espina was also the representative of the PNP in the Senate hearings for the Mamasapano clash, where over 60 people were killed in combat with members of the MILF and BIFF — including 44 members of the PNP Special Action Force.

Monday morning, Espina also headed the distribution of financial assistance to the kin of the slain SAF commandos and survivors of the tragic Mamasapano encounter.

Espina will be retiring on Thursday, July 16.