In the first week of the year our state force was tested. The Department of Interior and Local Government secretary ordered them to file their courtesy resignation to prove their innocence after he was told some generals and colonels were involved in the illegal drug trade. But all allegations remain unproven.
Our cops in Central Visayas were quick to heed to the call. Brigadier General Jerry Bearis issued a statement in support of this move. The courtesy resignation was to give consent to the committee of five to further scrutinize their lives, background, and lifestyle. Simply put, not submitting to this would be an admission of guilt. But I also ask the same question others are: Is it really necessary?
During the first year of former president Rodrigo Duterte the same issue of cops involved in the drug trade also surfaced. His appointed PNP chief came up with a list of those allegedly involved. They were gathered in one venue, evaluated, and some reassigned. Most left the service and the war on drugs continued with Oplan Tokhang which was an aggressive program that spawned the issue of extrajudicial killings.
Albeit not the best way to solve the problem, at least it was direct. At the very least, Secretary Benhur Abalos' way of approaching the situation seems to be beating around the bush. He could just get to the point and single out those he believes to be drug protectors. But who knows? It might just be effective, just like all the other strategies previous administrations have tried to address the problem.
As for our cops in the region, they don’t have the time and energy to be dissuaded. These times are very crucial for them as the Sinulog Festival nears. After two years, all the physical activities are now back. This means they have to secure Cebu City plus other areas where there might be an overspill of the visitors. Not to mention Central Visayas is a tourism hub. There is no time for them to waste.
They are doing a good job so far. From the day the opening salvo was held until this writing, there were no untoward incidents. If there was anything minor they immediately respond to it. We must commend them and keep their spirits up. Now isn’t the time to derail them from any issue that may or may not even concern them at all. The least we can do is to keep praying for a peaceful return of the Sinulog festivities. After two years, we deserve it.