Dolina: PRO-8 loyal to command

PALO, LEYTE, Philippines — The entire force of the Police Regional Office-Region 8 has maintained its loyalty and support to the chain of command of the Philippine National Police and to the Aquino administration.

Chief Superintendent Asher Dolina, PRO-8 director, made this declaration while saying that there has been no suspicious movement of his men or joining any mass action with religious and civilian groups as an outcry to the killing of 44 commandos of the PNP-Special Action Force in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last January 25.

Dolina told The Freeman that PRO-8 force’s way of honoring the Fallen 44, six of whom were from Eastern Visayas, was to show their grief and respect by continuing their loyalty to the service.

"So far, we haven’t monitored any movement of my men for mass action. Recently my men gave reassurance for their loyalty to the chain of command. It was enough, I think, that we joined the mourning for the slain SAF men. We don’t have to join the mess, because the Senate and Congress are already investigating the incident. We’ll just wait for the next step. We can honor the Fallen 44 by doing our job properly,” said Dolina.

Earlier, retired general Ramon Montano, former chief of the defunct Philippine Constabulary and Integrated National Police, said the rumors of discontent and unrest could be fueled by the general feeling of dismay and unhappiness by members of the PNP over the Mamasapano bloodbath.

Dolina, a member of the elite Philippine National Police Academy, however expressed optimism that the Aquino government will give fair justice to the SAF by making those responsible in the killing answer and face the consequences.

Some civil society and church leaders were reported to meet sometime this week to discuss their next move following the alleged swelling discontent among the people against the Aquino government.

Dolina refused to give comments on these reports saying he will treat these as rumors. "Whatever happens, we in the PRO-8 will remain united. As peacekeepers, we are here to enforce the law, and not to make trouble against any government or leadership," he added.  (FREEMAN)