Purisima back, Espina remains PNP OIC

Philippine National Police Headquarters / Wikipedia Photo

MANILA – Though he has been back in the country two days ago, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Alan Purisima is still not expected to report to his office today.

The PNP chief is still considered “on official trip abroad” until Wednesday.

This means that Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina remains the officer-in-charge of the police force until the chief reports back to office.

Meanwhile, the PNP chief remained firm on his claim that his detractors were behind his suspension order, issued by the Office of the Ombudsman.

Purisima is still mum on whether he will abide by the six-month suspension.

“The order of the day is for all members of the national police force to carry on with their labors and continue with the operations of the PNP. Let us maintain our professionalism and high morale for the safety and protection of our countrymen,” Purisima said.

The PNP chief is also confident that he will be able to face any hearing following his suspension.

“I welcome official investigations against me as the proper and acceptable venues for determining my accountabilities as a public servant,” Purisima said in a statement.

On Thursday, the Ombudsman also suspended several other police officers in connection with the alleged anomalous delivery deal of gun license in 2011.