Stay out of politics, Cagayan Valley cops told
POLICE Regional Office 2 director Brig. Gen. Steve Ludan on Sunday called on all officers and men of the Cagayan Valley police to stay out of politics or face the consequences if they will be found to be engaging in partisan politicking activities.
In particular, the PRO2 director instructed his unit commanders to remain non-partisan and refrain from publicly declaring or campaigning for their choice of candidates, saying that the PNP must remain non-partisan to be able to enforce election laws and regulations with integrity.
The member of Philippine Military Academy “Tanglaw Diwa” Class of 1992 reminded the Cagayan Valley cops that as public servants, they must keep their political views private to avoid negative speculations from the public.
“I urge the Valley cops to help me maintain our integrity and credibility as enforcers of the law. Let us keep our neutrality all throughout the electoral process. Our role is to protect the people and secure the integrity of the elections, and dipping one’s fingers into politics clearly defeats the purpose,” he said.
The PRO2 director likewise warned those who will violate his directive that they will face the consequences of their actions.
“This should also serve as a fair warning to everyone. Stay off politics or face disciplinary actions that will surely be meted against you,” he said.
Last week, Ludan told all provincial and city directors as well as chiefs of police in Region 2 to closely monitor their personnel and ensure that no one among the 9,474-strong Cagayan Valley police force is engaged in partisan politics.
