Survey says RP cops: 3rd worst enforcers: But police "shouldn't get affected"

Police officials said the reported result of a British survey conducted by Surveillance Studies Network ranking the Philippine National Police as the third "worst law enforcement performers" among 20 countries surveyed, should not affect fellow policemen.

Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-7 director, Senior Supt. Jorge Corpuz, told The FREEMAN that they shouldn't be affected by the survey published last November 2, as it wasn't the "voice of the Filipinos."

"I don't believe in this. I would rather want to be judged by my own people. If the people here will say that we are not doing good, then that's mas masakit and so we have to review our programs to improve our services. This is a political ratings, not a land-based ratings," Corpuz commented.

He added it would be better if the survey conducted was done by the Filipino people because the result would serve as "check and balance" for the police.

Corpuz doubted the survey upon seeing that Israel was on top spot as worst law enforcers when it is reportedly considered to have excellent intelligence gathering techniques and operations, citing the accomplishments of the "Mussad" - Israel's intelligence unit.

Chief Inspector Rex Derilo also expressed disbelief on the survey.

"The influx of tourism indicates that police forces here are working well. Notwithstanding traffic congestion, people feel safer to be outside of their homes," Derilo said adding that any survey should be based on facts.

Meanwhile, Cebu City Police Office acting director Melvin Gayotin admitted that there are indeed shortcomings on the part of the PNP, but that still they could do better than the other law enforcement units from other countries.

He said that tasks are being carried out despite problems on logistics such as the lack of firearms, vehicles, communications equipment and other important tools for law enforcement.

Gayotin also noticed that the survey did not include other countries that are always in the news because of their security problems, citing an African country with no strong political leadership.

"There are people who would like to compare us to other countries nga unta we have different cultures and traditions man," Gayotin said.

Meanwhile, regional police director Chief Supt. Silverio Alarcio could not be reached for comment as of press time. - Edwin Ian Melecio/MEEV