PSG not playing partisan politics - Palace

From ABS-CBN (Sep 8): PSG not playing partisan politics - Palace

Malacanang does not believe that the Presidential Security Group (PSG) is playing partisan politics.

Asked to comment about a bill seeking to insulate the PSG from partisan politics, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said: “The PSG’s concern is the safety and security of the President and the First Family.”

“Hindi ko nakikita. Hindi ako naniniwala na may partisan politics,” she told radio dzRB.

AKO-Bicol Party-list Reps. Christopher Co and Rodel Batocabe revived last week a proposal to convert the PSG into a highly professionalized civil security organization that will be named Government Protection and Security Service (GPSS).

The lawmakers said the PSG posts are perceived to be the most sought-after assignment since they are close to the seat of power.

"Military and police officers and personnel are designated to the PSG which serves as a springboard for their professional careers," Co said.

Batocabe noted that at least three PSG commanders have become AFP chiefs of staff.

"This perception should be eradicated as it demoralizes the members of the AFP and weakens public confidence in its military. The creation of an institutionalized civilian agency, independent from the AFP or PNP, ensures that the protective role of the agency -- that is ensuring the safety of national leaders, their families, the Malacañang Palace, and foreign visitors -- shall be upheld and given utmost priority," Batocabe said.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/09/08/13/psg-not-playing-partisan-politics-palace