Boy’s wish granted

A six-year old boy’s wish to become a policeman was granted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) yesterday during a flagraising ceremony at Camp Crame.

Deputy Director Gene-ral Clyde Fernandez, PNP deputy chief for administration, formally welcomed Joe Allan Mendoza to the force during the ceremony, where he was the guest of honor. A big banner bearing his name with "Master" on it welcomed the boy and his family at the PNP headquarters.

Clad in full police uniform with official PNP badge, the boy saluted proudly at the parading troops. The young Mendoza has been diagnosed with acute lymphonic leukemia since he was three. He has been undergoing chemotherapy since then. Mendoza was also given a tour around Camp Crame, including a visit to the PNP chief’s office before he was allowed to conduct "patrol duties" at the Cubao, Quezon City area.

Director Ricardo De Leon, PNP director for community relations, said the young Mendoza "got the time of his life riding in a police squad car while on patrol at the Cubao area." De Leon said the treat was a realization of the child’s wish.