Waistline policy for cops junked

With Panfilo Lacson out of the police service, and at present trying his luck in politics, what happens now to his 34-inch waistline policy which policemen, fearful of being dismissed, used to take to heart?

The answer came yesterday as Lacson’s successor at the Philippine National Police, Deputy Director General Leandro Mendoza, announced he was dumping the policy.

"There’s no need (to continue enforcing it)," said Mendoza, adding that the policy did not help in curbing criminality.

However, Mendoza said his decision does not mean a stop to the PNP’s physical fitness program.

"The physical fitness program will go on as we need healthy policemen," he said.

Lacson’s 34-inch waistline policy became controversial, with some policemen opting for an early retirement or resigning their commissions. — Jaime Laude