- GILBERT BAYORAN
Negros Occidental police personnel were reminded to refrain from soliciting and accepting gifts during the holiday season.
This is to maintain the integrity of the Philippine National Police, said P/Lt. Judesses Catalogo, spokesperson of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office.
Catalogo yesterday said that personnel found engaging in solicitation for the Christmas season will be administratively liable for simple neglect of duty or corruption.
The PNP also urges the public to avoid giving gifts in any form to the police as a sign of their appreciation.
In a statement released Monday, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said police personnel might get used to receiving gifts.
“That is why we made it a point to release their bonus early,” he added.
Azurin also said that police personnel are prohibited from accepting any form of “token of gratitude”.
“While we understand that some people want to reciprocate our deeds, I said, let’s be strict this time. We do not ask because we all know that we are all having a hard time making ends meet. Lots of jobs have been lost and businesses are still recovering,” he added.
“Let’s be together, it means we celebrate Christmas and we can have fun without spending a lot of money,” Azurin stressed.
Catalogo yesterday confirmed that the 2,416 strong NOCPPO, including Non-Uniformed Personnel, have received their 13th month pay, which is equivalent to their one month salary, and P5,000 cash gift./GB
