By Tracy Cabrera
AMIDST destabilization rumors and silent protests against widespread corruption, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is standing firm to lawful authority in declaring its protective stance in defending the citizenry and the Constitution against those who plan to topple the government.
To this civic leader Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia, chairman emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms (PADER), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI) and Filipinos Do Not Yield (FDNY) Movement, expressed unity with the national police while standing firmly behind ccting PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
Goitia commended the PNP’s steadfastness in the fulfillment of its mandate, stressing that amid rumors meant to divide the police and question its loyalty, Nartatez’s clear rejection of a so-called ‘loyalty check’ proves that the PNP remains disciplined and faithful to the Republic.
“True loyalty is not declared in words. It is shown in service. (Our PNP chief) and the men and women of the PNP have shown that their allegiance is not to politics or personalities but to the Filipino people and the Constitution,” he pointed out to MetroSun in an interview.
He lauded the PNP for staying above partisan noise and in standing behind President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. which he described as a reflection of the institution’s maturity even as he cited that “while others sow intrigue, the police continue to serve, marking the highest form of professionalism.”
Goitia likewise praised the PNP chief’s calm but decisive leadership, saying it kept morale high within the police ranks: “General Nartatez does not waste time on distractions. He speaks with clarity, reaffirmed discipline as he reminded everyone that the PNP’s (prime) duty is to protect and not to play politics.”
He also underscored that President Marcos’s confidence in the police leadership is well placed as “the chief executive (very well) knows that he can (always) rely on a PNP that upholds integrity and order.”
“This trust between the commander-in-chief and his police force is vital in keeping peace and enforcing reform,” he asserted.
In ending, the civic leader urged the public to support, not doubt, the police institution. “Our police officers put their lives at risk every day. They deserve our trust and our respect. Under General Nartatez, I believe the PNP will continue to serve honorably, cleanly and with pride.
“Now is the time for unity, not suspicion. The PNP, the military and the Filipino people must stand as one behind President Marcos (Jr.). Loyalty to the Republic means loyalty to peace, to justice and to good governance. The PNP has proven where it stands— with the President, with the people and with the nation,” Goitia concluded.
