Verzosa tells PMA cadets: Live by honor code

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City, Philippines  – Outgoing Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Jesus Verzosa yesterday told officers, staff and cadets of the Philippine Military Academy to “live by the honor code that every PMA-er is expected to live by.”

Verzosa, who is hanging up his uniform on Sept. 15 or three months ahead of his scheduled retirement, told the cadets to always prioritize and never compromise the interest of the institution.

In his speech during the testimonial parade for him at the Borromeo Field here, Verzosa said, “When faced with the greatest of challenges in the performance of your duties, when torn between which paths to take, and when agonizing over decisions to make, look to the institution first and make sure not to compromise it.”

“This is what distinguishes you, the true cavaliers, from others, and this is what will save the day for you in times of trials and temptations that may come in the performance of your duties,” Verzosa said.

The PNP chief related that his 38 years of service have been very turbulent but fulfilling.

“I was put in the so-called ‘freezer’ four times in my career but I was meritoriously promoted four times too for my outstanding achievements,” he said.

Verzosa said he will continue to help the Aquino administration uplift the image and capabilities of the police force even as he embarks on his new life as “farmer Jess” in his hometown in Dasul, Pangasinan.

The PNP chief also said he will always be available should President Aquino need him in the review of lapses or possible violations of PNP operational procedures during the hostage crisis last Aug. 23.

He was mum, however, on the possibility of accepting any government position after his retirement.