Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte questioned on Sunday recently appointed Davao Region Police Director Brigadier General Nicholas Torre III on his perception towards the peace and order in Davao City.
In an episode of Basta Dabawenyo aired on July 14, the City Mayor said he was “confused” on the massive actions performed by the institution, such as the mass relief of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) station commanders and controversies over the leadership in the city.
“First, they said there were discrepancies on the crime rate, as per Torre, and on his recent interview, he said it is connected with Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s issue,” Duterte said.
Duterte asked that if Torre had concluded based on its perception, it’s questionable for him to come up with such a conclusion, particularly with the city’s peace and security.
“My only question is, if Torre had done such massive action towards the institution, was it necessary or has he justified his reasons? Because his analysis was too subjective,” the mayor added.
Duterte also stressed that the incumbent Davao Region Police director “only ruined the integrity of the institution knowing that it would also impact its members.”
“You’re questioning not only the city, but the entire PNP (Philippine National Police),” he said of the dismissal of the top officers of the Police Regional Office in Davao Region.
Duterte also said he was not able to receive the shortlisted eligible officers to be recommended by the provincial police director prior to the said replacement.
According to Section 51 of Republic Act No. 6975 or the Department of Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, “City and Municipal Mayors have the authority to choose the chief of police from a list of five eligibles recommended by the provincial police director, preferably from the same province, city or municipality.”
Despite this, Duterte assured he will continue to support the police force in the city, and urged Davaoeños to carefully observe and trust the policemen on performing their duties well.
“If it is for the betterment of Davao City through their leadership, then I don’t have any issues with them staying longer here in our city,” he said.
