MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas has expressed his gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte for defending him anew over his mañanita controversy.
During his speech at PNP’s flag ceremony on Monday, Sinas said he was happy and at the same time ashamed of President Duterte’s decision to “pardon” him for the alleged community quarantine protocol violation.
“I’d like to thank the President for the trust and confidence. Ako po ay parang nahihiya na ko kay President lalong [dinepensahan] na naman po niya ulit ako tungkol po doon sa mañanita, ilang araw pa lang na ganon,” Sinas said.
“I have mixed feelings. Natuwa ako pero at the same time nahihiya. I’m very happy for the support of the President for me as his chief PNP,” the former National Capital Region Police Office chief added.
In a public address on Saturday, Duterte said he will pardon Sinas and will take full responsibility for naming him as the new PNP chief.
“Alam mo kasi ‘yang mañanita, it’s a religious, almost a religious ritual. Nakaugalian na talaga ng mga Pilipino. Hindi kasalanan ng pobreng Sinas na ‘yan na pumunta sila doon, hindi naman niya alam,” Duterte said./PN
