34 Bicol cop chiefs replaced

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Thirty-four police chiefs in the Bicol region have been relieved from their posts for failing to achieve their target in the anti-drug campaign.

Chief Superintendent Ramon Melvin Buenafe, Bicol police director, said among those sacked on Tuesday were the chiefs of police of Legazpi and Tabaco cities and the towns of Guinobatan, Rapu-Rapu, Sto. Domingo and Manito in Albay.

“They failed the performance appraisal…and some of them were involved in illegal drugs,” Buenafe said.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa earlier told PNP officials in Metro Manila, Western Visayas and Bicol to improve their performance in implementing Oplan Double Barrel.

At least 41,471 suspected drug pushers and users have surrendered in Bicol since July 1. Two policemen and 32 suspects were killed anti-drug operations.