Gamboa: No 'bata-bata' system in PNP

Philippine National Police (PNP) officer-in-charge Police Lieutenant General Archie Francisco Gamboa on Monday denied that there is an existing "bata-bata" system in the police organization following the major revamp of some police officials.

"Wala naman siguro akong 'bata-bata.' Ang indication lang diyan is kalahati ng RD (regional director) napalitan, pati classmate ko kasama. I don't know ano sinasabi nilang favoritism or 'bata-bata,' lahat naman ng pulis, bata ko," Gamboa said during a press conference.

"Bilang officer-in-charge ng PNP, lahat ng pulis bata ko. Rest assured na 'yung sinasabing 'bata-bata' system, hindi naman existing 'yun sa PNP," he added.

Last week, Gamboa ordered a major shakeup in the police organization following President Rodrigo Duterte’s dismay on the supposed involvement of some police officials in a drug recycling scheme.

The movements involve two Police Major Generals, 17 Police Brigadier Generals and two Police Colonels.

Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac earlier admitted that some police officials were disappointed with the revamp.

Banac said the major revamp was part of the career development of all cops.

Despite the disappointment of some policemen, Banac assured the public that the whole PNP still supports Gamboa and his programs. —KBK, GMA News