New PRO-7 chief denies bringing own men to Cebu

CEBU, Philippines – The new regional director of the Philippine National Police has denied reports that he will bring his own men to Region 7 to occupy key positions here.

Speaking on behalf of Regional Director Ager Ontog, Chief Insp. Romeo Santander said Ontog himself was surprised of the report that came out in another newspaper.

Santander, head of the Regional Special Operations Group, is chief officer of the regional police office media group. 

Santander said Ontog does not have plans of replacing the officials of PRO-7 because, in the first place, he has no authority to replace them. Ontog also reportedly assured that he will not replace anyone unless directed to do so by the national headquarters.

Santander clarified the eight officials who were with Ontog during the turnover ceremony over the weekend were senior officials who assumed office at PRO-7 even before Ontog took over the post of Chief Supt. Lani-O Nerez.

He clarified further that Senior Supt. Josephus Angan, former Cebu City Police Office Director, is already assigned at PRO-7 even before Ontog assumed post. The report mentioned that Angan will be Ontog’s chief of staff.

“Once you are much qualified, you don’t have to worry,” Santander said, referring to officials at PRO-7 who might be bothered by the report.

So far, only the logistics division is not headed by anyone, but is temporarily manned by Sr. Supt. Abner Catalla.

“Let’s give RD a time, space. Dili nato siya sugaton dayon ug ingon ani na mga reports,” Santander requested. (FREEMAN)