DILG chief gives Region7 'satisfactory' mark

CEBU, Philippines – Aside from "manageable problems," the peace and order situation in Region 7 is "satisfactory."

This was the assessment of Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo during his brief visit to the Police Regional Office-7 at Camp Sergio Osmeña yesterday afternoon.

"Based on my data, Region 7 is okay. Their (PRO-7) crime statistics show na okay," Robredo said, adding, "merong mga konting problems, but these are manageable."

Robredo was at the regional headquarters yesterday to be briefed on the peace and order situation in Central Visayas, as well as the police's efforts to curb illegal gambling.

The DILG and the Philippine National Police are thrust to the forefront in the campaign against illegal gambling following the mention of names of several high-ranking PNP officials allegedly involved in jueteng at a Senate inquiry.

Present in the briefing yesterday were DILG-7 Regional Director Pedro Noval, PRO-7 Regional Director Ager Ontog, and other top officials of the headquarters. Senior Supt. Patrocinio Comendador, head of the Regional Intelligence Division, facilitated the five-minute briefing.

Matters such as the incoming barangay and SK elections were also discussed. (FREEMAN)