President Marcos made a “good choice” when he appointed retired Judge Jaime Santiago as the new Director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), according to Senator Ramon Revilla, Jr.
“He (Santiago) is really the man for the job,” Revilla emphasized, expressing strong confidence in the seasoned policeman’s capability to lead the NBI in its mission to combat crime.
The actor-politician reminisced about his connection with Santiago, whom he portrayed in the 1990s biographical action film,”SPO4 Santiago: Sharpshooter.” The movie chronicled Santiago’s career as a police officer in the Western Police District (WPD), now known as the Manila Police District.
“Criminals better hide because Santiago will hound them. I can vouch for him,” Revilla told reporters in a message, noting Santiago’s relentless pursuit of justice.
Santiago’s early years were marked by his rapid rise through the ranks of the Philippine National Police, particularly within the WPD. His exceptional skills as a member of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team brought him into the limelight during the 1990s.
Santiago’s reputation as a crack shot and his fearless approach to law enforcement made him a household name and inspired the biographical film starring Revilla.
Beyond his tenure in law enforcement, Santiago transitioned into the judiciary, serving as a judge in the Regional Trial Courts of Manila and Tagaytay and the Metropolitan Trial Court in Manila.
His judicial career was complemented by his previous role as an assistant city prosecutor under the Department of Justice.