With his determination to fight crime and corruption in the country, the chief of the Philippine National Police, Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has earned a reputation for being a tough guy.
He is living proof, however, that even the strongest guys have a soft spot.
In an interview with Boy Abunda in his ABS-CBN show The Bottomline, aired on Sat, Jul 19, Dela Rosa couldn’t hold back his tears as Abunda read aloud the police chief’s letter to his “Papa Doro.”
The letter has earlier been posted on his Facebook page a few days before Father’s Day.
In the letter, Dela Rosa revealed that his father was a tricycle driver who struggled to send him to school. His father fought hard against hunger, lack of education, emptiness and poverty.
“I didn’t know where did I get the courage to defeat my fierce enemies and the strength to face insurmountable challenges and then I realized, I am your son,” Dela Rosa said.
“How I wish you’re still here to coach and cheer me in my three to six months fight against drugs and criminality. I’m nervous, Pa,” he added.
Proudly wearing his uniform, Dela Rosa said that even brave men cry. He didn’t seem to have problems getting in touch with his emotions.
“Kasi kung ikaw taong walang puso, hindi ka tao. Hindi ka naging matapang kung wala kang puso,” he reportedly said according to an Inquirer report.
(“If you don’t have a heart, you’re not human. You’re not brave if you don’t have a heart.”)
In spite of his tough image, Dela Rosa seems to be very open about sharing his soft and emotional side. He earlier revealed his three fears on National Television.
You may watch part of the interview here:
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