New PNP chief may be designated in acting capacity – PNP spokesperson

As long as Director General Alan Purisima has the four-star rank, the new Philippine National Police (PNP) chief who will replace him will remain in “acting capacity,” the spokesperson for the police organization said Thursday.

 

In an interview with reporters, PNP public information office Chief Superintendent Wilfredo Franco said the four-star rank will not be given to Purisima’s replacement should President Benigno Aquino III proceed with the appointment any time soon.

However, the new PNP chief will have “full powers” according to Franco.

 

“Pwede na siyang ma-designate na acting capacity which would mean na ang kanyang kapangyarihan o pag-execute ng kanyang trabaho ay with full powers na,” said Franco.

Comparing the designation of “PNP-OIC” with “acting PNP chief,” Franco said the administrative capacity of the latter has “no limitations.” 

“Kung sakaling hindi pa pwedeng ibigay ang ranggo, ang full powers ng position ay pwede nang i-exercise ng isang acting (PNP) Chief,” Franco said.

Purisima, who resigned as PNP chief in February at the height of the Mamasapano clash controversy, will remain in the service until November this year. The current OIC, Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina is due to retire on July 19.

Both Purisima and Espina belong to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1981. — Cedric Castillo/RSJ, GMA News