MPD chief OKs ‘Big Brother’ plan for Manila cops

Manila Police District (MPD) director Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales has expressed his support for the city government’s plan to tap police retirees who will monitor the attendance and assignments of active-duty policemen, despite strong opposition from the rank and file.

“Yes, I support it. The plan will serve as feedback mechanism in monitoring the activities of Manila policemen. I commend our police retirees who shall render their services in assisting the leadership of the command to further improve the image of the MPD,” Rosales said in a phone interview.

According to Rosales, there is no reason for the Manila policemen to turn down the plan, except for those who have “something to hide.”

Active-duty policemen earlier voiced their opposition to the city government’s proposal, branding the plan as “absurd” and “stupid.”

Others expressed lukewarm response to the plan, saying it is an affront to the capability of their superiors to discipline their men.

Still others called the retirees “Big Brother,” in reference to George Orwell’s book 1984, where a person or group exerts dictatorial control and maintains a constant watch over others, often while presenting a caring image.

Retired colonel Felicisimo Lazaro, president of the Manila’s Finest Retirees Association, Inc., in consultation with Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, proposed the plan in order to address the perceived breakdown of discipline among Manila policemen following their alleged involvement in illegal activities.

Lim was reportedly amenable to the proposal and ordered retirees Chief Inspectors Pedro Angulo and Isidro Lozano and Inspectors Leon Gamboa, John Peralta, Rogelio Elorta, Augusto Carreon and Edgar Santiago to form a team to check on the Manila police officers.

Lim is expected to further explain the mechanics of the retirees’ monitoring duties on Monday’s flag-raising activities at the MPD headquarters. – Nestor Etolle