Cops shy away from Estrada jokes

DAVAO CITY — There’s no directive prohibiting them from cracking so-called Erap jokes, but policemen are nevertheless shying away from them.

"We practice self-restraint because we are afraid of losing our jobs," said a police officer, who requested anonymity.

"When we crack jokes, we make sure that nobody will bring it to the attention of our (superiors)," he added.

Director General Panfilo Lacson, Philippine National Police chief, said no directive prevents lawmen from cracking such jokes, even admitting that some of these find their way to him through text messages.

"They can if they want," he said. But he stressed that if uniformed personnel show partisanship, "I would really ask them to shed their uniform and stay out of the (service)."

Lacson has repeatedly said that the police should remain neutral and uphold the Constitution. "My instruction on this matter is very clear and simple," he said.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome, PNP spokesman, denied reports that the opposition is recruiting police officers. — Edith Regalado