Manila, Philippines – Despite concerns and scrutiny surrounding security details for politicians, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed that Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, a candidate seeking re-election this May, continues to be protected by a four-man security team. This confirmation comes amidst ongoing discussions about the allocation of police resources and the potential for over-protection of certain individuals, particularly during election periods.

The PNP explained that the security detail is a standard measure for individuals considered to be at risk, and Senator Dela Rosa, given his public profile and previous roles, falls under this category. "Senator Dela Rosa, as a former Chief of the PNP and a prominent figure in national politics, remains a potential target for threats," stated Police General Dionardo Carlos, the current PNP Chief, in a press briefing. He emphasized that the security detail is not a privilege but a necessary precaution to ensure the Senator's safety and the safety of the public.

However, the decision to maintain the security detail has drawn mixed reactions. Critics argue that allocating four personnel to a single politician while other citizens, including ordinary police officers, may lack adequate protection is a misallocation of resources. Some groups have called for a review of security protocols for all candidates, advocating for a more equitable distribution of police protection based on an objective assessment of risk.

The PNP defended its position, highlighting the need to assess each case individually. They pointed out that the threat assessment for Senator Dela Rosa is ongoing and is based on intelligence reports and historical data. The security detail is trained to respond to various threats and is equipped to handle potential security breaches. Furthermore, the PNP assures the public that they are constantly evaluating the security situation and will adjust the protection level as needed.

Senator Dela Rosa himself has acknowledged the concerns but insisted that he does not feel entitled to the security detail. "I understand the concerns of the public, and I appreciate the PNP's efforts to ensure my safety. However, I believe that the safety of all Filipinos should be the priority, and resources should be allocated accordingly," he said in a statement released through his office.

As the election season intensifies, the debate surrounding security details for candidates is likely to continue. The PNP faces the challenge of balancing the need to protect candidates from potential threats with the responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. This situation underscores the importance of transparent and objective security protocols, as well as a continuous evaluation of risk assessments to ensure that resources are allocated effectively and fairly.

The upcoming elections highlight the delicate balance between protecting political figures and maintaining public trust in the PNP. Moving forward, a more open dialogue between the PNP, candidates, and the public regarding security protocols will be crucial for ensuring a safe and fair election process.