Police are to be Protected by a ‘Defense Council’, Marcos Backs PNP Reorganization
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Police are to be Protected by a ‘Defense Council’, Marcos Backs PNP Reorganization. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has initiated a study for the potential establishment of a legal office designated as a “defense council” to protect police officers from harassment and baseless accusations.
This initiative was discussed during the 2nd Command Conference of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for 2024, held at Camp Crame on Tuesday.
Protection Against Harassment
President Marcos emphasized the need for this legal office within the police organization to provide immediate legal assistance to police officers facing various complaints, which he described as being “weaponized” against them.
“There will be lawyers whom they can run to and who will give them advice internally, so they won’t need to pay,” Marcos was quoted as saying in a Presidential Communications Office (PCO) news release.
He highlighted that many cases are being used as weapons against police officers, making it difficult for them to perform their duties effectively. “Even if they catch the criminals, the latter often have good lawyers, leaving our policemen helpless,” he added.
PNP ‘Rightsizing’
At the same conference, President Marcos expressed his support for the planned “rightsizing” of PNP personnel. This initiative aims to optimize the police force and enhance their visibility across the nation. By rightsizing, the President intends to eliminate redundant duties and responsibilities within the police force, thus improving the efficiency of police programs and community projects.
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, who was also present during the command conference, assured that no police officers would lose their jobs. Instead, they will be reassigned to other functions to maximize their utility.
Reducing Crime and Enhancing Disaster Response
President Marcos also directed the PNP to continue efforts to lower the crime rate in the country, building on the current momentum from the recent decrease in index crimes. He acknowledged the progress in reducing theft and rape but noted that more needs to be done, especially since rape cases remain relatively high.
In addition to crime reduction, Marcos stressed the importance of improving the PNP’s capabilities in combating cybercrime. He also called for enhanced training for police personnel in disaster preparedness and response, underlining the need for better preparedness in dealing with natural disasters.
Conclusion
President Marcos’ initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to strengthening the PNP. The proposed “defense council” aims to protect police officers from legal harassment, while the rightsizing plan seeks to optimize their deployment and efficiency.
By focusing on crime reduction and improving disaster response capabilities, Marcos is striving to create a more effective and resilient police force for the Philippines.