After he was previously scheduled to arrive in Bacolod City yesterday, Philippine National Police (PNP) Director-General Oscar Albayalde canceled the visit after formally stepping down from the post yesterday morning. In a statement, he said he had the opportunity to talk with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año after being linked with alleged “agaw bato” and “ninja cops” schemes during recent Senate hearings.
The outgoing police chief said he gave the decision careful thought and deliberation and is now on “non-duty” status.
Albayalde added, since he is retiring by November 8, his decision will pave the way for President Rodrigo Duterte to appoint his replacement. For the time being, Police Lt. General Archie Francisco Gamboa will temporarily serve the post of officer-in-charge.
The former PNP chief was supposed to visit the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office as part of his tour of police offices across the country ahead of retirement.
Earlier this month, a gun ban was put into effect in Bacolod City for the duration of the ongoing MassKara Festival. According to an order issued by Albayalde, permits to carry firearms outside of residence are temporarily suspended.
The order further stated, “Only members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies who are performing official duties and in agency-prescribed uniforms will be allowed to carry firearms.”/DGB, WDJ