PNP chief bans ‘umbrella cops’

MANILA, Philippines — Stressing they should be serving the general public and not just certain individuals, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has banned police officers from serving as umbrella assistants to very important persons or VIPs during events.

Marbil issued the directive as he said the use of police officers to protect VIPs from sunlight or rain with umbrellas does not help in uplifting the dignity of PNP personnel.

“Sabi ko, hindi namin trabaho na magdala ng payong (I said it’s not our job to hold umbrellas),” he said in a speech at the inauguration and blessing of the new PNP Press Corps press office at Camp Crame.

He lauded journalists, noting they are partners in telling the truth to the public.

The top cop said he got angry during one of their events when he saw some police officers, particularly the new ones, holding umbrellas for VIPs and acting like aides or bodyguards.

Marbil recently got the ire of Vice President Sara Duterte after he pulled out 75 police officers from her security contingent. He defended his decision, saying they need more personnel on the ground for public safety.

He stressed they are paid with taxpayer money to serve the public and not just a few persons.

“Let’s bring back the dignity of our uniform,” Marbil said.