Malacañang said it respects the decision of resigned Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, General Oscar Albayalde to go on a non-duty status (NDS) ahead of his scheduled retirement on Nov. 8.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, who described the NDS as “a privilege”, said its availment is voluntary in accordance with the National Police Commission guidelines.

Panelo, meanwhile, thanked Albayalde for his service as the country’s 22nd PNP chief and wished him well.

“We wish General Albayalde all the best in his future undertakings as we express our sincere gratitude to the former PNP Chief for his services to this Administration, the nation and to the people,” Panelo said.

Panelo earlier denied that Albayalde was pressured to step down.

“I can only speculate that maybe he had enough of the according to him, ‘false, unfair accusations and innuendos’ especially because his family is suffering,” Panelo said.

Albayalde announced his decision to step down as PNP chief and go on non-duty status during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony in Camp Crame.

“After careful thought and deliberation, I have come to the decision to relinquish my post as Chief [of the] PNP effective today and go on a non-duty status,” Albayallde said in his speech.

He said he has submitted his letter of intent to go on NDS to Interior Secretary Eduardo Año.

His decision to resign comes amid allegations that he protected his subordinates involved in the recycling of illegal drugs in 2013.

Former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief and now Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong claimed Albayalde deferred the dismissal order against his subordinates while former CIDG deputy director, Col. Rudy Lacadin, claimed Albayalde admitted receiving money from the reselling of drugs but “only a little”.

Albayalde denied these allegations claiming other police generals were ganging up on him and vowed to file charges against them.

He is scheduled to tender his compulsory retirement on November 8 when he turns 56. (PNA)