MANILA – The new chief of the Philippine National Police did not mince words when he addressed scalawags in the police force during the PNP's change of command on Friday morning.

"Kayong mga kotong, abusado, tamad at sindikatong pulis, bilang na ang mga araw ninyo," said Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa.

Like his boss, newly installed President Rodrigo Duterte, Dela Rosa expressed his determination to rid the country of drugs, criminality and corruption starting from those who are supposed to implement the law.

"In our fight against drugs, criminality and corruption it is either you are with me or you are not with me. If you are with me, then let's do it. But if you are not with me, then you are finished. We have to eliminate scalawags from within our ranks," he said.

Dela Rosa particularly zeroed in on policemen from Metro Manila who boast about being "ninjas", recycling illegal drugs.

"I am giving you 48 hours to voluntarily surrender to me at ilahad ninyo sa akin ang lahat. Otherwise, mag-AWOL (Absence Without Leave) na lang kayo at mag full time drug lord na lang at makipag-gera na lang kayo sa amin," he said.

"I am telling you this: This has to stop right now or I will stop you from enjoying your evil life. I promise you change is coming, including your birthday which would be changed to November 2."

Dela Rosa admitted waging war on drugs, criminality and corruption is a daunting task but added: "Together we can win this fight."

He urged the public to help him and the PNP in ending the ills of society.

"We need your help very badly. I am urging you to please join the fight. Be our prayer warriors. Ipagdasal ninyo po kami na sana kami ay magtagumpay sa aming misyon, na sana kami ay hindi magkakamali at higit sa lahat hindi namin maabuso ang karapatang pantao," he said.

He also vowed before President Duterte his endless and unquestionable loyalty.

"Itotodo ko na ito and I swear I will not fail you, Mr. President," he said.

"I am ready to take on the challenge to lead the PNP and I am ready to start the work for the PNP and this nation as a whole," he ended.