LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – The provincial director of the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) joins the rest of high-ranking cops in the country in the submission of courtesy resignation, following the call of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. for internal cleansing within the Philippine National Police (PNP).

In a press statement, PCol. Julius Suriben, chief of INPPO, said that he supports the appeal of the DILG Secretary to all PNP colonels and generals to submit courtesy resignation as part of the internal cleansing program of the organization in relation to its fight against illegal drugs.

“I undoubtedly support such effort to cleanse the ranks of the organization. Public accountability must be carried out to its fullest extent and as a third-level public official in the PNP, it is my utmost responsibility to serve the people with the highest standard of integrity and professionalism,” said Suriben.

With his submission of courtesy resignation, the provincial chief hopes that the designated committee will proceed with the open and impartial investigation.

“With the intention to cleanse the government, to give justice to those who will be found innocent on the issues, and finally, to help restore and strengthen the trust and confidence of the public in the organization amidst myriad challenges,” added the provincial director.

Along with the other provincial directors in the Ilocos region, Suriben’s courtesy resignation was submitted to the Police Regional Office 1.

In a separate statement, Secretary Abalos said that those who have signed courtesy resignation would remain in the police force unless their resignations are accepted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (JCR/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)