The next chief

As Philippine National Police chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil ends his term on June 7, he continues to place his faith in his successor to reform and improve the police force, saying that he goes for continuity rather than legacy. While I do not know the current chief, I do like the fact that he believes in continuing education and learning, especially about the law as, after all, learning is life long.

Among those being considered for the post are PNP deputy chief for administration Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., PNP chief directorial staff Lt. Gen. Edgar Allan Okubo, National Capital Region police office director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III.

Among these short listed individuals, I have had the privilege to know CIDG director Major General Torre III. In the last administration, I also had the privilege of knowing former PNP chief Guillermo Eleazar. Both, in my opinion, are officers and gentlemen dedicated to protecting and serving the nation. They both also served as QCPD police chief, a post that my grandfather Tomas Morato performed first in my city.

So what does it take for one to be chosen as the next police chief? Marbil has asserted that all the choices are qualified and capable of leading the Philippine National Police. Back to the question, and after much research, I have come to realize that the position of chief of police is a very critical one, especially when you serve as a liaison between law enforcement and the public.

Imagine leading and managing the entire department, including all officers and staff, and at the same time ensuring efficient operations and effective law enforcement? Not to mention, the chief of police is ultimately accountable for any issues or incidents within the department, and his/her leadership style can significantly impact public perceptions of the police.

Then there’s crisis management. By now I am certain that we can only imagine just how critical this role may be. But then again, there is also the issue of following orders and toeing the line. Hence, a gray area that makes it difficult to make decisions.

These are the times when people find themselves caught in between the clash of law and morality and it must not be ignored that whether we like it or not, we can find ourselves in uncomfortable circumstances where we need to make decisions that are not necessarily easy. More so a police officer who is given an order and is bound by duty to obey, especially when it involves answering the call to accountability and transparency as instilled in the police force.

(To be continued)