PNP OIC Gamboa says all key positions on probation; promotions on hold

A day after the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced a major shakeup in its organization, officer-in-charge Police Lieutenant General Archie Francisco Gamboa on Monday disclosed that all key positions are placed under probation and all promotions are on hold within the PNP.

"All key positions are under probation for three months. And all promotions will be on hold. And I will make sure the ax will fall where it should if these leaders will not deliver results," Gamboa said during a press conference in Camp Crame.

"Sigurado tayong may pagbabago sa three months, kaya nga may three months eh for them to show that they deserve the position," he added.

Gamboa admitted that the recent mess in the police force "has shaken the institution at its core," adding that it had caused displeasure of President Rodrigo Duterte as well as some doubts on the police's capability to serve Filipinos.

"These are extraordinary times that call for extraordinary measures not only to protect the significant gains we've achieved in our campaign against crime, illegal drugs and corruption but also to bring it to its next level from the insights we've learned from our tumultuous experience," Gamboa said.

Gamboa has ordered a major revamp in the police organizations following President Rodrigo Duterte’s dismay on the supposed involvement of police officials in the alleged drug recycling scheme.

The movements involved two police major generals, 17 police brigadier generals and two police colonels.

Gamboa said he is expecting "fresh ideas, fresh enthusiasm and fresh resolve" from commanders following the latest major shakeup within the police organization.

Amid the drug recycling controversy, Police General Oscar Albayalde stepped down from his post as chief PNP. He, however, maintained his innocence over the issue.

Meanwhile, Gamboa said the PNP would abide by the final outcome of the review of the Department of Justice on the controversial 2013 Pampanga drug raid. — RSJ, GMA News