Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 9) — Of the over 900 full colonels and generals of the Philippine National Police (PNP), 3% to 4% allegedly have direct links to illegal drug trade, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Monday.
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“There are some intelligence reports, but we have to vet them very, very well… according to the chief PNP (Rodolfo Azurin Jr.) it’s about more or less, approximately 3% to 4%,” Interior Sec. Benhur Abalos told CNN Philippines’ The Source.
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He also said they have an initial list of the identities of the police officers suspected of having links to illegal drugs. The DILG secretary noted these people have been in office for a long time, and have money, power, and resources.
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Abalos said the process has two parts, first is the evaluation of the 947 generals and full colonels to be done by a five-man panel that will include Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. After this, a list will be submitted to the National Police Commission for further review.
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The whole process is seen to last for three months.
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If found guilty, the police officers may face criminal charges, Abalos said. There are also plans for those found guilty, but refuse to resign, he added.
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Abalos said those found innocent will continue with their service since their resignation will not be accepted.
So far, around 500 of the 947 top police officers have tendered their resignations. The deadline for the submission is until the end of January, he noted.
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