Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte denied Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rommel Marbil’s statement that he never helped the policemen involved in the drug war.
In the 11th hearing of the House Quad Committee, Duterte elaborated on how he has supported the PNP.
Former President Duterte said there is nothing he can do for those who have been dismissed or detained.
“If you work for the government, there are rules to be followed. It is not just because you are a policeman that you are always correct,” he reasoned.
“There must be a reason for their dismissal. There cannot be a dismissal without lawful grounds. Kung napaalis ‘yan, Sir, meron talagang kasalanan,” he added. (If they were removed, then they must be at fault.)
“Pero ako, pro-police talaga ako, prinoprotektahan ko talaga ang police,” Duterte clarified. (But as for me, I am pro-police. I protect them.)
However, Santa Rosa Representative Dan Fernandez asked the former president why it had taken him six years to extend police assistance.
“After six years, ngayon lang po tayo magbibigay ng tulong para po sa kanila,” Fernandez questioned. (After six years, it is only now that you are giving them assistance.)
“Hindi,” Duterte responded. (No.)
Duterte said that Marbil’s records would not show that he had sent support in the form of rice, monetary aid, and tuition fees for the officers’ children.
“Wag ka maniwala diyan kay Marbil, maniwala ka diyan,” Duterte said. (Do not believe Marbil.)
After questioning Marbil’s credibility, he apologized to Fernandez.
“Sandali lang ha, I’m not trying to be smart. I’m sorry,” he apologized.
“Hindi ko sinasadya ‘yun,” he added. (I did not mean it.)