For his last flag ceremony as the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General, Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said on Monday, that the organization as it is today cannot be overruled by the politicians, unlike before where it was a common set up to demand cops “to submit into their wills and influences”.
“For the first time in the history of PNP, it is only now that I have proved that the PNP cannot be bullied by traditional politicians and influential groups into submitting to their wills and influences,” dela Rosa said, stressing that during his service, all he ever did was to stand up for the PNP.
Dela Rosa recounted that in the previous administrations, politicians would handpick cops and assign them to certain positions in order to assure that their own interests are met.
This system, however, was abolished when Dela Rosa became the head of the police force, he said.
“I did not give in to the pressure, you know why? Because we have a President who is fully supportive to our efforts,” he added.
Dela Rosa also thanked the policemen for trusting him and apologized, at the same time, for his shortcomings.
“I am here in front of you not to brag about what I have done or what I failed to do. I am just here as your father in the PNP to thank you for all you have done during my term,” he said.
“If I have not reached your level of expectation, I am very sorry, that was just all that a PNP chief like me who came from the province can do,” he added.
Finally, Dela Rosa said, “I’m very proud to be your chief PNP.”
(DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 04/ 16/18)