Erap hands out P152-M allowance to MPD cops

MANILA, Philippines – Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada handed out yesterday P152 million in allowances to members of the Manila Police District (MPD).

The police officers led by MPD director Chief Superintendent Rolando Nana received P20,000 each representing their allowances for this year.

Estrada distributed the cash during the inauguration of the renovated MPD headquarters and blessing of 14 patrol cars.

He ordered the MPD to intensify the anti-crime campaign to make Manila a peaceful city to live in.

“I believe that peace and order is the key to the progress of a city. If there is no peace, there will be no economic development,” Estrada said.

The mayor said he decided to give the police officers their allowances despite criticism from city hall employees.

“The policemen deserve it because their lives are in danger every day,” he said.

The MPD was cited as one of the outstanding police districts in Metro Manila when Estrada assumed office in 2013. – Jose Rodel Clapano, Rey Galupo