Duterte: Albayalde is the right guy for the moment

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday said he has chosen incoming Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Oscar Albayalde to lead the police force as he is "the right guy for the position."

"There are suggestions... plenty... but I chose the right guy for the position. Albayalde to me is the right guy for the moment, so siya 'yun," Duterte said in a press briefing in Davao before leaving for Boao, China.

On Thursday, Duterte disclosed that Albayalde would be the successor of outgoing PNP chief Director General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa.

When asked why he did not pick someone from Davao City like Dela Rosa, Duterte explained that he initially chose Dela Rosa as he needed men whom he can personally trust.

"No, it only happens for Bato because pasok akong una and I need men who I could really trust," Duterte said.

The Chief Executive clarified that he has not listened to any politician regarding recommendations for government appointments.

"If there's going to be a process there, board something... let them do it," Duterte said.

"I do not play favorites... Hindi ko hinahaluan ng politika 'yan. 'Yung military and police. I do not allow even request for the transfer of a police chief," Duterte said.

Albayalde has expressed gratitude to Duterte for his decision and to Dela Rosa for endorsing him to the President.

Lawmakers have lauded Albayalde's appointment, noting that his disciplinary attitude toward his duty has made him suited for the position.

Albayalde, who had previously served as Pampanga Provincial Police Office chief, is set to take his oath on April 18 while his retirement is on November 8, 2019. —KG, GMA News