PHILIPPINE National Police Chief Director General Ronald Dela Rosa reported to members of the Police Regional Office - Cordillera the proposed salary increase for policemen will have to wait.
This was part of the national police chief’s keynote speech during his visit at Camp Bado Dangwa in La Trinidad, Benguet during the celebration of the 115th Police Service Anniversary last week.
Dela Rosa announced the wage increase was not approved in the Congress but promised the present administration will continue to work on its campaign promise.
“Unfortunately during the budget hearing sa Congress, hindi na-incorporate ang increase sa sahod instead yung na-incorporate lang doon is additional allowances para sa mga personnel natin,” Dela Rosa stated.
The PNP chief said the dilemma of increasing salaries of police officers will be affecting the national budget for the future as the pension of retirees will also be doubled.
“Kapag kasi dinoble ang sweldo natin sa PNP, by law, dodoble rin ang pension ng mga retired personnel and yung ang nakikitang problema,” he added.
Despite the sad news, Dela Rosa assured the national government will continue to pursue its pledge to ensure the police force will be provided better living.
“Let me assure you that we continue to look into the needs and requirements of the service. Hangad naming ang kapakanan ng bawat miyembro ng police uniformed man o non-uniformed,” the PNP official said.
“We are not only working towards providing the tools needed to help you perform on your functions better, but also the benefits and the privileges that will help you give your families a better and comfortable life,” he closed.
Despite the dilemma, Dela Rosa remains optimistic of the wage hike and the police force to continue in improving their performances in living to the mandate of protecting and serving the people.