DAVAO CITY – Mayor Sebastian Duterte has strongly criticized the removal of 35 police personnel, including six station commanders and the City Police Director, Richard Bad-ang, from the Davao City Police.
The Police Regional Command issued the order for their relief on Friday night, following a recommendation from the Regional Internal Affairs Service (RIAS) related to their alleged involvement in the killings of seven suspected drug peddlers. The intent behind these removals, aimed at preventing interference with the ongoing investigation, has been met with condemnation from Mayor Duterte.
“The recent actions taken against these relieved personnel contradict the spirit of cooperation and mutual trust crucial for effective governance and law enforcement.” Duterte emphasized.
Duterte expressed concern that such actions go against the spirit of cooperation and mutual trust essential for effective governance and law enforcement. He highlighted the remarkable track record of the Davao City Police Office in maintaining peace and order, citing a significant 69% decrease in focus crimes comparing May CY 2023 to May CY 2024 as evidence of their dedication and competence.
In light of these recent developments, Mayor Duterte called attention to Republic Act 6975, emphasizing the operational supervision and control that city and municipal mayors have over PNP units in their respective jurisdictions. He stressed his commitment to collaborating with law enforcement to uphold peace and order in Davao City and expressed concerns about the disruptive nature of recent actions within law enforcement agencies.
Mayor Duterte adamantly opposed any attempts to erode the hard-earned trust between the community and law enforcement, stressing the need for transparency and accountability in handling the matter. He also called for the immediate reinstatement of the officers who were relieved unfairly.
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Over the years, the city government under Duterte’s leadership has provided substantial financial and logistical support to the operations of the Davao City Police.
The installation of Richard Bad-ang on March 22 was accompanied by a warning from Mayor Duterte to individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to leave the city or face consequences due to the serious drug issues impacting the youth and residents of Davao.
Following the turnover ceremony, the deaths of seven suspected drug peddlers sparked further investigation and controversy within the Philippine National Police Hierarchy. The situation escalated with former President Rodrigo Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos engaged in a war of words, referencing drug-related allegations that were later retracted by Duterte.
