IF ROGUE cops need axing, NCRPO director Chief Supt. Guillermo Eleazar rewards exemplary service by pinning the Medal of Merit on PO1 Florjo Padilla. With PO1 Richard Abuan, Padilla collared a snatcher who even fired at the cops. ANALY LABOR

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) will intensify its investigation to unmask, dismiss and file criminal charges against “police scalawags” especially those involved in kidnapping.

PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said on television there will be no sacred cows in their investigations in line with the PNP’s campaign to cleanse its ranks.

“We will be objective but firm in our investigations to unearth those in the PNP involved in illegal activities,” said Albayalde.

“That’s why we are concentrating our investigations to unmask those involved in kidnappings,” he added.

Asked why kidnapping incidents seemed to be on the rise, Albayalde said kidnapping remains to be a lucrative activity among criminals.

“One reason is money, because it’s as they say, ‘easy money’ especially if they are asking a few hundred thousand as ransom,” said Albayalde.

The PNP chief urged the public to be vigilant to avoid falling victim to kidnappers.

Albayalde’s statement came just days after President Rodrigo Duterte berated over 100 policemen facing charges for illegal activities, saying he will have them “killed” should they continue their ways.

Meantime, the PNP got a much-needed boost as President Rodrigo Duterte pledged a P25-million monthly support for its hospitalization program.

Albayalde expressed his gratitude to Duterte for the hospitalization support during the 117th Police Service Anniversary held at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

According to Albayalde, the fund will “go a long way in helping ease the financial burden” of hospitalized policemen. The fund will also be used for the improvement of the facilities of the PNP General Hospital.

Earlier, Duterte and Albayalde were met with applause and cheers from the crowd as they continued trooping the line despite the heavy downpour.

The StaffBorn at the turn of this century, the Daily Tribune immediately took hardcore stance on issues, bearing a slogan that speaks of its character.