Revamp at PNP coming

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will soon undergo a major revamp to strengthen its campaign against criminality and drug trafficking.

PNP chief Director General Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. announced the impending reshuffle during a visit to Baguio City where he presided over the 99th National Law Enforcement Council meeting at Camp John Hay.

Ebdane said the overhaul, possibly to take effect before the month ends, will cover the central headquarters down to the provincial level.

He ruled out public apprehensions that the changes would cause demoralization within the ranks.

"The revamp would be justifiable," he assured the people.

Ebdane stressed that the reshuffle was necessary because several of the PNP officials have been in their present posts for two years, the maximum limit to prevent fraternization with organized crime and individual criminal elements.

Some of the police chiefs have allegedly failed to curb illegal activities in their respective areas of jurisdiction, notably illegal gambling, while others were simply due for promotion.

At the same time, Ebdane said he recalled the May 30, 2002 order recommending the promotion of several senior police officers.

Although the promotion order bore his signature, Ebdane denied having a hand in its issuance.

Ebdane also expressed optimism that the revamp would bring about improved peace and order conditions throughout the country.

During the meeting, Ebdane reported that as of last week, police have arrested 21 suspected members of kidnap-for-ransom gangs, and killed three others including a police inspector allegedly involved in criminal activities.

"We are also gaining headway in our campaign against the proliferation of illegal drugs," Ebdane said.

Police raided last week a shabu laboratory in Xavierville subdivision in Quezon City, resulting in the confiscation of over P120 million worth of high grade shabu.