The police chief of Bayawan City, Negros Oriental has tendered his resignation, citing the perceived absence of support from local government officials and the community to the Philippine National Police campaigns against illegal gambling and illegal drugs.
PNP provincial director Sr. Supt. Edward Carranza of Negros Oriental confirmed Chief Inspector Teodoro Picardal has informed him of his resignation because of the marching order to stop illegal gambling in Negros Oriental.
Carranza said he respects the decision of Picardal because it was an option that was given to all the chiefs of police in the province if they fail to curb illegal gambling operations in the province.
He admitted that it would be difficult for the police chiefs to operate against illegal gambling if the community and the local government units will not support the campaign. The PNP cannot successfully implement the program without the support of the community.
Provincial Director Sr. Supt. Carranza clarified that the resignation as chief of police is never a show of cowardice but great humility that they cannot handle the challenge to eliminate illegal gambling. He clarified that he will assign another chief of police who can promise to at least minimize illegal gambling in the area.
Supt. Carranza said that illegal gambling is very rampant in Bayawan City and Santa Catalina in Negros Oriental. He also admitted that there are important personalities and government leaders who might be behind or supporting the illegal gambling operations.
Earlier, PNP regional director Chief Supt. Marcelo Garbo warned all chiefs of police in Negros Oriental to eliminate illegal gambling or resign if they cannot deliver. (PNA)
