POLICE Major General Debold Sinas remains the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director despite the charges filed against him for violation of quarantine rules.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Archie Gamboa said Monday, May 18, that Sinas is “hard to replace” because of the programs he implemented to help combat the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

“Yes, I hope the public would understand. Kasi nandito tayo sa ganito nga, emergency situation. Pag palitan mo siya, we will never know. Napakahirap palitan dahil ang dami niyang programa in terms, in relation sa COVID,” Gamboa said in a radio interview.

The top cop said aside from Covid-related programs, Sinas has also been effective in the government’s fight against illegal gambling.

“Yes, there are still a lot. Meron kaming campaign against illegal drugs and alam naman natin na nung umupo siyang NCRPO, huminto talaga yung illegal gambling sa National Capital Region,” said Gamboa.

Sinas was criticized and charged over his “mañanita” birthday celebration on May 8, during which his subordinates gathered in his quarters at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

The gathering was held despite the prohibition on mass gatherings as part of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) protocols.

Gamboa earlier defended Sinas but he also ordered the conduct of an investigation.

On Friday, the Internal Affairs Service filed criminal charges against Sinas and 18 other police officials and officers who attended the celebration. (SunStar Philippines)