New PNP chief vows more cops on the streets, less in stations

With Director Ricardo Marquez set to take the helm of the Philippine National Police, the public can expect to see more policemen on the streets and outside of stations.

“I like to see more police officers on streets. I will push people from the national, regional, provincial headquarters to go out of their police stations,” Marquez told reporters Tuesday after the announcement of his designation as new PNP chief.

“I want to see officers on the street para ma-address 'yung issue ng criminality,” he added.

In his speech accepting his new position, Marquez said since the PNP is now “recovering and moving on from a difficult situation, it is an opportune time to focus more in doing the core functions of the police.”

He said that function includes "patrolling the streets, protecting our communities, preventing crimes."

"[We should] make sure that crimes are properly investigated to prevent them from happening again and track down and take down most wanted criminals,” Marquez said, noting that he accepted the position at the time the country is hosting its second Asia-Pacific Economic Conference in 20 years.

“The police is tasked not only to provide force and resources but leadership and experience as well in the national joint task force and we will continue to abide by the presidential directive of zero incident during major international events,” he said.

Marquez also said the PNP is now starting its preparations for the 2016 polls.

“As I accept this (position), your police too [have] undertaken the initiative to start preparing for elections next year and we are now in the third preparatory meeting with partners from the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and Comelec (Commission on Elections),” he said.

The incoming PNP chief urged his subordinates to “rally behind your leadership."

"I ask each and everyone of you now to contribute your share in strengthening this institution," Marquez said. "To our partner law enforcement institutions and local government units and the Filipino people, I appeal for your continued support to your police in the fight against criminality in pursuit to build peaceful communities and neighborhood."

Marquez is set to take over the helm of the PNP Thursday when PNP officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina retires.

Espina, for his part, expressed confidence in the ability of Marquez to lead the police organization.

“If I can only describe Ric in one word, it would be napakasipag. His competence has been proven, he is responsible in planning activities, successful events like the Papal visit. The PNP is in good hands,” he said. —KBK, GMA News