PNP 'remains steadfast' despite Purisima suspension

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership continues to do its mandate and functions despite the suspension of its chief, Director General Alan Purisima, a ranking official said Friday.

In a statement, Police Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina said that the agency remains "steadfast" in light of the developments that rocked the organization. 

"Despite recent developments affecting the PNP hierarchy, there has been no let-up or gap in our performance of the mandate to ensure peace and order and internal security. 

"PNP line units remain steadfast to deny criminal elements and threat groups the opportunity to take advantage of the situation that would have otherwise distracted our focus, instead, we kept our bearing and stood firm with stronger commitment to serve and protect our people against crime, violence and oppression," Espina said. 

Espina has been designated to be the officer in charge of the PNP with Purisima's suspension. 

The Office of the Ombudsman earlier ordered the six-month preventive suspension on Purisima in connection with the alleged anomalous deal between the PNP and the gun license delivery. 

"The Philippine National Police continues to perform its public safety and law enforcement functions under a newly-reorganized Chain of Command and leadership structure to meet the ever–growing demand for better and more effective police service to the communities," Espina added. 

He also called on the 150,000 police personnel to rally behind the PNP leadership.