MANILA, Philippines – There are at least 3 people being considered to replace former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary of Public Safety Rico Puno.

Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas told reporters on Tuesday, October 30, that most of the names being considered are former police officers or those who have had experience with the Philippine National Police (PNP), but have left and worked in the private sector.

Roxas said the combination of such an experience would make the ideal candidate because they would be familiar with the structure of the PNP.

He said that they are looking to submit their recommendation to the President by next week, but Roxas emphasized he can wait.

“I’m not in a rush. Hindi naman talaga ako nagmamadali dahil napakaselan nitong posisyon na ito at ang pinakamahalaga rito ay makakatulong siya sa pagpapalakas ng PNP (This position is very important becuase it will help greatly in the strenghtening of the PNP),” he added.

The DILG head also said he would conduct interviews — reminiscent of the Judicial Bar Council in selecting a Chief Justice — to see if the candidate fits the position.

The undersecretary position controls the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) as well as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

Puno, the former undersecretary, was asked to resign by his close friend and shooting buddy President Benigno Aquino III after the former was linked to several controversies.

As it stands, the DILG has 3 undersecretaries despite the law only allowing for two. – Rappler.com