Bartolome gets 4th star, wants poor performers axed

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome received his fourth star yesterday as he ordered the immediate relief of police chiefs and precinct commanders who fail to curb crimes, especially those done by motorcycle-riding perpetrators, in their areas of jurisdiction.

He asked his wife, Dr. Naomie Bartolome, and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chairperson Loreta Ann Rosales to pin the star on his shoulders during a simple ceremony.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr. said it was the first time a PNP chief tapped the CHR to be part of such a ceremony.

Bartolome said he has told National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Chief Superintendent Alan Purisima to assess the performance of the police chiefs.

“I have given instructions to... Purisima that every time a crime takes place, he must relieve the police precinct chief or police chief. We need to address these crimes,” Bartolome said in a radio interview.

The PNP chief said he also directed the NCRPO chief to strictly enforce the law and strengthen the campaign against criminal groups by gathering more information about them, locating and arresting them and then prosecuting them.

To further boost the anti-crime effort, Bartolome instructed Highway Patrol Group director Chief Superintendent Leonardo Espina to strictly enforce the “no plate, no travel” policy and accost those riding tandem on motorcycles.

Bartolome also said police officers should also refrain from using “hot” cars or stolen vehicles that have been recovered.