2 policewomen awarded

CEBU, Philippines - Two outstanding policewomen in Cebu City are still in awe after paying a courtesy call to no less than President Benigno Simeon Aquino at the Malacañang Palace Tuesday morning.

Inspector Arieza Otida of the City Investigation and Detection Management Branch and SPO1 Ruth Bongo-Violango of the Homicide Section were among the ten policewomen Aquino has paid tribute for reportedly showing “an extra-ordinary performance in the conduct of their duty.”

Otida and Violango, both assigned at the Cebu City Police Office, are the only finalists from the Visayas region to have won the award.

Otida expressed fulfillment for receiving the award and for having been given tribute by the highest official of the country.

May other policewomen in the service be inspired to serve more and to do their best, she said.

Violango, for her part, considers the award as the pinnacle of her career as a police officer, saying that it is an honor that the President himself appreciated their efforts.

Being able to go to Malacañang is also a dream come true for her.

Being a woman, Violango said, is not a hindrance to serve the public especially in the Philippine National Police, which is a “male infested” organization.

Otido and Violango were each given a trophy, a plaque of appreciation and a caliber .45 pistol at Camp Crame.

The Search for the Ten Outstanding Policewomen of the Philippines is an annual search spearheaded by the Zonta Club of the Makati Paseo de Roxas Foundation Inc. with the aim to give credits to policewomen who have shown exemplary deeds while in service.  (FREEMAN)