AFP, PNP honor Enrile’s role in national security, police capability

The Armed Forces Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police on Friday recognized the role of Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile on their organizations following his passing. 

In a statement, the AFP mourned the passing of Enrile, who was a former head of the national defense.

“Across decades of public service, he played a consequential role in the nation’s security and political life,” the AFP said. 

“We honor his years of service and the enduring debates about his legacy, which form part of our national history,” it added. 

The AFP said Enrile served as the secretary of Justice from 1968 to 1970 and secretary/minister of National Defense from 1970 to 1971 and then 1972 to 1986, before returning to the legislature where he later became Senate president from 2008 to 2013. 

“The AFP extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” the military said. 

Meanwhile, PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. also honored “Manong Johnny” for his significant role in improving the national police. 

“As the head of the Ministry of Defense at that time when the national police force was still under the AFP, Manong Johnny played a key role in pushing for professionalism and improving the operational capability of the then [Philippine Constabulary - Integrated National Police],” he said. 

For Nartatez, Enrile was instrumental in providing all the necessary support to the PNP as a senator and chief presidential legal counsel. 

“Manong Johnny will always be part of not only the history of the country’s police force, but also of the history of the Filipinos as a nation,” he said. 

“The men and women of the Philippine National Police extend their deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” he added. 

Nartatez said the Philippine flag in front of the PNP National Headquarters at Camp Crame in Quezon City will be flown at half-mast on Monday, November 17, to honor Enrile. 

Enrile died on Thursday afternoon. He was 101 years old. —AOL, GMA Integrated News