DOJ vows aid to law enforcement bodies in anti-crime drive

The Department of Justice (DOJ) vowed to extend full assistance to law enforcement authorities in their fight against criminals. (File Photo by Ramon FVelasquez/Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0)

MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) vowed to extend full assistance to law enforcement authorities in their fight against criminals.

“Let me make a solemn promise. DOJ is ready to extend a helping hand to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Police Commission and the Philippine National Police to address crime in the country. You have our back. (The) bond between agencies remains strong. (I) wish for you to open your ears so you can hear (the) calls of public for a better police force and what (the) PNP needs,” Guevarra said in his speech during the 52nd founding anniversary of the National Police Commission (Napolcom) on Friday.

He urged the police to have an open mind as they start and plan towards a crime-free Philippines and be receptive to call of service.

Under the present set-up, the Napolcom sits atop the police force to provide guidance, which is very important in the face of current challenges like the war on drugs.
It is also mandated to exercise administrative control or supervision over the PNP.

The Napolcom also advises the President on all matters and report yearly to give appraisal of police organizations in the country.

Guevarra said the quality of police service should be ensured so everyone can stand proud, free from every stain of corruption and irregularity.

He added that the Napolcom must be equipped with quality police manuals and competent personnel knowledgeable of the system of unified crime reporting and plans and programs for police training, noting that these are integral to proper functioning of the justice system.

“A fair and balanced disciplinary system kept in check by impartial investigation of police anomalies — the results will speak for themselves. We will finally have a police force the nation deserves. Better police translates to better crime prevention, crime reporting, better case buildups, better prosecution and more convictions in court,” he said.

Guevarra said his department will ensure that the anti-crime campaign will not be hindered by lack of legal support.