Guv awaits DILG nod to meet RPOC

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia yesterday brought to the attention of PNP chief Raul Bacalzo her not being able to convene the Regional Peace and Order Council in Central Visayas inspite of her reelection as council chairperson because of the absence of her appointment paper from the Department of Interior and Local Government.

Garcia briefed Bacalzo of the peace and order situation of Region 7 during the latter’s visit to her office at the Capitol. Bacalzo paid Garcia a courtesy call during his first visit to Cebu since he assumed as PNP chief.

Garcia told Bacalzo she would have wanted to convene the RPOC-7 but could not do so since she has yet to receive her appointment paper from the DILG. Bacalzo assured Garcia that he will follow up her appointment with DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo.

Bacalzo said he was impressed by the constant meeting between Garcia and Police Regional Office-7 Director Ager Ontog on matters of peace and order.

RPOC-7 has been awarded best RPOC in the country under Garcia’s leadership.

Bacalzo yesterday urged the police officials in Central Visayas to exercise their authority to discipline their men to instill in them the basic skill in policing.

“But the problem in the field, may mga chiefs of police na natatakot i-exercise yung authority nila,” Bacalzo said.

“Don’t forget the basic policing, the courtesy, discipline and good manners and right conduct. That’s the only way to regain the trust and confidence of the public. That’s the first and foremost na dapat matutunan ng kapulisan,” he added.

Bacalzo yesterday led the unveiling of the PNP Badge monument at the PRO-7 headquarters. He also awarded medals and plaques to policemen and civilians responsible in recent big time anti-drug operations in the region.

Medalya ng Kagiti-ngan were given to officers of the Regional Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Force for the seizure of three kilos of cocaine in Lapu-Lapu City from two suspected drug couriers.

The Mandaue City Police Office also received the same award for the seizure of one kilo of cocaine and another pack of shabu in Barangay Mantuyong last March 31.

The Regional Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force was also awarded for the successful raid at Jaguar KTV in Barangay Kasambagan last April 9.

Medalya ng Papuri was given to Lapu-lapu City Police Office for the confiscation of P2 million worth of corals in Punta Engaño last March 30.

Plaques of appreciation, on the other hand, were given to the International Justice Mission, Department of Social Welfare and Development and a barangay council of Punta Engaño for the said operation.

The PNP Chief also commended PRO-7 in its anti-human trafficking operations that even the President Aquino himself sent him a message congratulating the PRO-7 for it. — (FREEMAN)