PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) officer-in-charge Lieutenant General Archie Gamboa on Monday, October 28, maintained that the so-called “bata-bata system” no longer exists within the organization.
"Wala naman siguro akong 'bata-bata.' Ang indication lang diyan is kalahati ng RD (regional director) napalitan, pati classmate ko kasama. I don't know ano sinasabi nilang favoritism or 'bata-bata,' lahat naman ng pulis, bata ko," Gamboa said during a press conference in Camp Crame.
"Bilang officer-in-charge ng PNP, lahat ng pulis bata ko. Rest assured na 'yung sinasabing 'bata-bata' system, hindi naman existing 'yun sa PNP," he added.
“Bata bata system” refers to favoritism or giving favor to a police officer.
Gamboa made the statement after the major revamp he ordered drew some adverse reactions.
Gamboa was designated OIC after PNP chief Oscar Albayalde went on a non-duty status amid allegations of protecting ninja cops, or officers who recycle seized illegal drugs.
The revamp affected two major generals, 17 brigadier generals and two colonels. Some of them were seemingly demoted.
Earlier, PNP spokesperson Brigadier General Bernard Banac admitted that some of those who were included in the shake-up were disappointed and unhappy.
He, however, maintained that the revamp was part of the career development and is a normal procedure in their organization.
Gamboa said the reorganization was needed because of the retirement of some senior police officers.
As an OIC, Gamboa does not have the power to implement such movement but he was given the authority by the National Police Commission upon the order of President Rodrigo Duterte. (SunStar Philippines)