This is an AI-generated summary, which may contain errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
Brigadier General Jack Wanky expresses disappointment after learning that some policemen in the region are bodyguards, and, worse, they have lowered themselves to the level of guarding the dogs and cats of VIPs.
BACOLOD, Philippines – The regional director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Western Visayas on Thursday, March 7, called out law enforcement in the region for allowing themselves to be degraded by politicians and VIPs, serving no only as his bodyguards, but also. also as “pet sitter”.
Brigadier General Jack Wanky, director of the PNP-Western Visayas, said he was saddened to learn that some policemen in Negros and Panay were moonlighting as bodyguards, and, worse, they were reduced to the level of guarding the dogs and cats of the VIPs.
“This must stop now! I don’t want to hear or see any of my policemen or policewomen accused of moonlighting,” Wanky warned the region’s roughly 12,000-member police force.
Wanky, who took over as PNP director in Western Visayas less than three weeks ago, also warned that policemen who moonlight as bodyguards without PNP authority run the risk of being accused of violating the law of anti-graft and corrupt practices.
Moonlighting refers to working a second job alongside a primary one. It is often done for extra money or other personal interests, usually outside of the regular working hours of their main job.
“This is illegal. Therefore, the police should avoid such,” said Wanky.
Colonel Noel Aliño, director of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), also warned that the practice of moonlighting among PNP members raises very serious questions about professionalism and ethical standards among the forces of the law.
“Mabaraka can find conflicts of interest in the moonlight and in a balancing function. Kaya bawal po talaga (Having conflicts of interest is inevitable with their moonlighting activities and their duties and functions as police officers. That is why it is really prohibited).” Aliño said.
Wanky said threatened citizens, including politicians, need to justify their request for security escort and permits first secured by the Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG) before they can be provided with security assistance.
Without permission from PSPG, Wanky said, no policeman or policewoman can perform duty as personal security assistant to anyone outside the PNP.
However, he encouraged PNP personnel in the region to engage in legal ventures, not only to enhance their lives and profession but also to enhance their image, credibility and integrity.
Wanky said, “I want you to earn a decent income.” – Rappler.com
