Manila: With his extended term set to end on June 7, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil on Wednesday expressed hope that reforms and improvements within the police force will continue under the leadership of his successor. "I don't go for legacy. Gusto namin continuity. Dapat tuloy-tuloy yung reform, yung pagbabago, yung improvement (We want continuity. Reforms, improvement should continue)," Marbil stated during a media interview at Camp Crame.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marbil emphasized the importance of mandatory continuing education and learning about the law for police personnel. He noted that all candidates for the next PNP chief are qualified, highlighting Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Lt. Gen. Edgar Allan Okubo, Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin, and Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III as potential successors. "Lahat po sila magagaling (All of them are good). They have their own strengths and weaknesses. Lahat po sila (All of them are) capable of leading the Philippine National Police," Marbil assured.
Marbil, who has dedicated significant time to public service, mentioned his desire to spend more time with his family following his retirement. His term was extended by President Ferdinand Marcos R. Jr. by four months from his mandatory retirement date on Feb. 7, to ensure stability during the 2025 midterm elections. Marbil, 56, was appointed PNP chief on April 1, 2024.
Under Marbil's leadership, the PNP enforced a "No Tolerance for Cover-Ups" policy, which aligns with the "Zero Tolerance Policy" on misconduct, echoing President Marcos' call for transparency and accountability. He reminded unit commanders of their responsibility to ensure accurate reporting, especially regarding personnel involved in operations. Marbil underscored the importance of integrity in leadership to maintain public trust, stating, "I will hold all commanders accountable if they are found covering for their personnel."
Meanwhile, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin reported that the number of police commanders under investigation for lapses and violations discovered during surprise inspections has risen to 28. Aberin explained that these commanders, assigned to police community precincts and substations, are being probed for alleged supervisory failures. "Nine po 'yong initial po ngayon, and maari pa pong madagdagan po 'yong mare-relieve based po doon sa outcome po ng investigation po natin," Aberin mentioned.
Aberin also noted that lower-ranking personnel are under investigation for negligence, stressing the need for police presence on the streets around the clock. "Dapat 'yong mga kapulisan natin ay nakikita po sa kalsada at 24 hours po nandoon," he added.
