Mandaluyong Mayor Benjamin Abalos Sr. threw his support to the decision of the Philippine National Police to relieve its chief of police after it turned positive in a random drug test last week.

“We support the PNP’s effort to cleanse its ranks of drug users. This is in line with our government’s thrust towards a drug-free country.”

“While it is unfortunate that our former Chief of Police, Col. Cesar Gerente, tested positive for drug use, we understand that these surprise drug tests promote the highest standards among our police force” Abalos in a statement said.

In turn, the father of Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. announced his decision to replace Gerente with Officer in Charge Police Col. Mary Grace Madayag. He urged the  PNP to conduct the strictest of tests and enforce the highest of standards before presenting us with the names of the next possible candidate for Mandaluyong’s Chief of Police in order to avoid a similar issue in the future.

“Finally, we assure the public, especially our dear Mandalenyos, that we in the local government shall continue to strive towards a peaceful, brighter, and more prosperous future for everyone,” he said.