EDITORIAL - Let's give Romana some space

So Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama finally got what he wanted. And Senior Superintendent Noli Romana is now well on his way to assume the post as the new director of the Cebu City Police Office starting this week.

The Philippine National Police leadership has approved Rama's letter requesting for Romana to be installed at the helm of the CCPO. In a memorandum, Director Catalino Cuy of the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management designated Romana as the new city police director replacing Sr. Supt. Mariano Natu-el Jr.

A month into his second term, Rama sees this development as a big triumph of his leadership. He had fought tooth and nail for Romana, going to the extent of penetrating concerned agencies in Manila just to get his man.

But there's a problem. Romana's records in Negros Oriental where he served as provincial police director were far from impressive. In fact, he flunked in the battle against illegal gambling, which caused his relief by then Police Regional Office-7 director Marcelo Garbo.

There's really a big challenge awaiting Romana in Cebu City. Like in Negros Oriental, illegal gambling is rampant in the city and Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella wanted him to immediately act on this problem once he assumes his new post.

Can Romana make a difference in the crusade against illegal gambling - and the illegal drug trade - in the city? It's too early to tell. But what is certain is that the mission would be dauntingly tough given the fact that these illegal activities have been deeply rooted in the barangays.

If Romana succeeds, Rama will have all the praises for choosing the right man. He would deserve the right to triumphantly declare before the world that, at last, he has found the right piece. The mayor can even shout at his critics, blasting them till kingdom come for condemning his decision.

But what if Romana fails?  Of course, that would not be surprising given his 'unimpressive' Negros Oriental performance. But since it's too early to tell, let us give the guy some space.