Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa became emotional during Wednesday's Senate hearing after a suspected drug lord linked several police officers to the illegal drug trade.

"Your honor, I cannot blame the public if they are losing trust and confidence in their police because I myself, sabi mo nga, di mo na nga alam kung sinong pagkatiwalaan," he said, citing as an example the appointment of Albuera police chief C/Insp. Jovie Espenido.

"Your honor, pinapasa-Diyos ko na lang yung sitwasyon namin sa PNP. Gustong gusto ko nang ma-reform yung PNP because mahal na mahal ko yung organization namin pero ako ay hirap na hirap na," he added, as he shed tears.

"I will never surrender...Kaya ko ito; hindi ko ito uurungan. Lilinisin ko ang PNP hanggang sa makakaya ko," he said.

Senator Migz Zubiri comforted Dela Rosa, saying lawmakers have already filed bills to increase the pay of police officers.

For his part, Senator and former PNP chief Panfilo Lacson said the nation's top cop should do something about police officials who have been linked to illegal drugs. "Pag ganitong sobra na, di ba dapat kumilos na ang chief PNP? Pag di ka kumilos, mahahawa ang iba," he said.

Senator Francis Escudero also cracked a joke to lighten the mood.

He told dela Rosa: "Sabi niyo, hindi kayo si Superman. Katabi niyo ho si Batman," referring to suspected drug lord Kerwin Espinosa who was seated beside him.