Not all policemen are eligible to take part in anti-drug operations even after the Philippine National Police (PNP) has once again been called upon to join the government’s crackdown on narcotics trade.

This was bared by Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, the highest ranking police officer in Central Visayas, during his command visit in Bohol on Wednesday.

According to Taliño, only policemen who have undergone extensive background check can join the PNP’s drug enforcement units in provinces, towns and cities.

The PNP has also been mandated to continue coordinating with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency which has been named lead agency in the government’s anti-drug campaign.

Priests and pastors may be invited to join anti-drug operations, particularly “Oplan Tokhang,” but they are not to be forced, added Taliño.

PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa had previously proposed the involvement of representatives from the religious sector in the implementation of Oplan Tokhang.

According to Taliño, the internal cleansing within the ranks of the PNP is being sustained to rid the organization of errant policemen despite the rejoining of cops in the war on drugs.

In Central Visayas, only nine of 8,000 policemen have tested positive for illegal drug use and are now facing summary dismissal proceedings. (Rey Tutas)