PNP Chief downplays reported SFPD decision to end training program

Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald dela Rosa has belittled the possible effect of the reported decision of San Francisco Police District (SFPD) to end the 16-year long exchange training program with the country’s police organization.

“Yes it will impact in the sense that we are losing the opportunity to train with them but not really so much,” Dela Rosa said in a message to reporters.

Another police official, who asked not to be named, said the PNP can still utilize its training program with other countries such as Australia and Israel.

California news station KPIX earlier reported that SFPD ended its Philippine Exchange Training Program due to "concerns over allegations of civil rights and human rights violations in the Philippines" in its "bloody" war on drugs.

In a phone interview with GMA News Online Thursday, PNP Training Service director Chief Supt. John Sosito said they have yet to receive a notice from SFPD.

“I don’t want to comment on that because we have yet to get any communication from SFPD,” he said.

Asked if the cutting of ties will affect the PNP training program, he said it would be difficult for him to make any statement as there is still no formal notice.

“Let us cross the bridge when we get there,” he said.

Established in April 1999, the exchange program resulted in the formation of the Philippine Exchange Training (PET) Team that strengthened professional ties and mutual learning opportunities among the peacekeepers from the two countries.

Since President Rodrigo Duterte launched the intensified campaign against illegal drugs in July, 1,725 drug suspects have been killed.

A total of 31,629 drug suspects have been arrested in 32,909 operations, while 751,703 have surrendered to the authorities. — BAP, GMA News