SOME 150 policemen with relatives running in the May 9 polls were ordered transferred by Cordillera Police Regional Office director Brig. Gen. Ronald Lee in an effort to ensure a non-partisan police force.
Lee said the move was part of their proactive approach to ensure the non-partisan status of all Cordillera police officers and men in full compliance with the directive of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos.
According to him, the affected policemen have relatives up to the fourth degree of consanguinity who are vying for elective positions in Cordillera region on May 9.
“This move is to help dispel allegations that police officers are campaigning actively on their relatives and intervening on their behalf. Para maiwasan na rin ang speculations at pagdududa na sila ay tumutulong doon sa pangangampanya sa kanilang kamag-anak,” Lee said.
The Cordillera police director said the concerned policemen were transferred to other areas outside the cities, municipalities, and provinces where their relatives are seeking elective posts.
However, the Cordillera top cop explained that the reassignment is temporary and will last until the end of the election period on June 8 or until they were instructed to go back to their previous assignments.
He reminded the 9,179-strong members of the Police Regional Office Cordillera to remain apolitical.
Lee vowed to hold accountable any of his personnel who will violate their commitment to stay neutral during the election period.
