Davide to cops: Remain neutral

CEBU, Philippines — As politicking heats up, Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III has a clear message for the police in the province remain neutral.

In an event at the Capitol yesterday, Davide has urged the police force to refrain from meddling in the campaign activities of candidates leading to the May 13 elections.

“I'd like all of you to stay neutral always… Do not take sides with any politician,” said Davide during an awarding ceremony for police dubbed as "Operations Lawmen" held at the Capitol Social Hall yesterday morning.

Prior to the program, all the chief of police in the Cebu province had a courtesy call with Davide and Vice Governor Agnes Magpale.

In his speech, Davide asked the police not to allow candidates to make use of their personnel for the aspirants’ advantage.

“Ayaw mo pagpagamit sa mga politiko. Ayaw mo pag-apil-apil sa kampanya sa politiko,” he said.

Davide also told the police officers present to uphold their primary role of keeping the elections and the campaign period peaceful and orderly.

“Just do your job… Take the side of the law always and (follow) instructions of course from PD (provincial director) Manny Abrugena,” said Davide.

On the sidelines after the event, Senior Supt. Manuel Abrugena, director of the Cebu Police Provincial Office, said the speech of the governor during the activity was also his main message when the police officials had a courtesy call with the Capitol officials.

“Iyan naman po ang ginagawa ng ating kapulisan,” he said, adding that this principle is also what the head of the Police Regional Office has instructed them.

Abrugena said that they have not heard of any report or complaint yet of such nature.

“Sa ngayon ang ginagawa natin, sa lahat ng campaign activities ng mga politicians, we are not only protecting the politicians campaigning but also the attendees and participants of the political activities,” he said. (FREEMAN)