Interior and Local Government Secretary Ismael Sueno today said the DILG will give its unwavering support to the peace and order agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Secretary Sueno made the statement following the instruction of the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasan Pambansa Complex on Monday where he specifically directed the DILG to strictly monitor the Local Government Unit’s supervision function over the police.

The Secretary said he agrees with the declaration of the President that there can never be real, tangible and felt development in the country without making the people feel secure.

Sueno said he will patiently work on the issues and concerns which he believes are detrimental to the government’s campaign against all forms of prohibited drugs including its peddlers.

“This is the reason why we have been working day and night to make the 911 operation throughout the country, as smooth as possible. President Duterte has clearly signified his intention to make 911 the government’s new crime arm,” Sueno said.

He likewise said: “That since 911 will be a 24/7 operation it will not only cater to disaster response but could also address and react on issues related to crime. It’s just a matter of treating both disaster and crime issues equally important.”

He added: “Like what the President has said yesterday, ‘my administration shall be sensitive to the State’s obligations to promote and protect, fulfill the human right rights of our citizens, especially the poor, the marginalized and the vulnerable and social justice will be pursued, even as the rule of law shall at all times prevail.”

Presidente Duterte also gave his marching order among others to the National Police Commission (Napolcom) an office under the chain of DILG to hasten the conduct of investigation and adjudication of administrative cases against police officers involved in criminal activities and illegal activities and prescribe policies on lifestyle checks for PNP members. #####