Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. on Thursday said the call of Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. for senior officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) will be good for confidence-building between the organization and the public.

In a statement, Revilla said this will show that everyone is accountable and no one is untouchable in the government.

“Even the Chief PNP and chaplains are not spared. Ipinapakita nito na kaisa ang lahat sa pagbabalik ng tiwala ng publiko sa pulisya (This shows that everyone is united in restoring public trust in the police) – especially the highest-ranking officers,” he said.

He said there is nothing wrong with Abalos’ call, saying the courtesy resignations will not be an indictment against the PNP, but a measure that shows the police organization serves at the pleasure and the best interest of the public.

“The PNP holds its personnel to the highest standards – lalo na yung mga nasa mabababang ranggo na araw-araw nating nakikita (especially those who are in the lower ranks that we see everyday). It’s good to show that the organization also holds those in the highest ranks to at least the same standards,” Revilla said.

During a press briefing at Camp Crame Wednesday, Abalos called on all colonels and generals of the PNP to submit their courtesy resignation to cleanse the institution of those linked to illegal drugs.

He said this is to finally put to rest reports of high-ranking police officials’ alleged involvement in the illicit drug trade.

Abalos however said those who have nothing to hide have nothing to worry about and will have no problem with their submission of courtesy resignations. (PNA)