Police initiate second inter-faith dialogue

CEBU, Philippines - The Police Regional Office in Region 6 has initiated a second round of dialogue with religious groups to thresh out issues and concerns between the police and the church.

Around 20 leaders from different religious denominations are expected to attend the dialogue today at Camp Delgado, Iloilo City. Police Regional Director Chief Supt. Cipriano Querol said the dialogue also aims to solicit the cooperation of religious groups for the PNP's efforts in maintaining peace and order in the region.

The first inter-faith dialogue was conducted last December.

"We want to get their commitment of support in our Integrated Transformation Program and other campaigns," Querol said.

There will be no strict agenda to be followed, rather, participants can raise any complaint and/or concern for discussion.

"They are free to bring any complaints against the PNP and we will try to address that properly," Querol said. He said he plans to meet with the religious groups on a quarterly basis. 

"As the Sultan of the Muslims in Panay, we are assured that we get our Muslim brothers to our side," Querol said, adding, "we are also working hard to get the commitment of other religious denominations."

Querol, who was earlier enthroned as the first Sultan of Panay, said that in the end, the dialogue is geared towards one goal: a better Western Visayas for everyone.

"Time and again, we are reiterating the fact that the backbone our anti-criminality and anti-insurgency campaigns is the support of the community. And what better way to achieve it than soliciting the help of the religious community," he said.

The PNP Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) is a roadmap for long-term reforms in the Philippine National Police. The program was also implemented to resolve organizational dysfunctions and improve the quality of police services, strengthen law enforcement capabilities, and enhance the welfare and benefits of PNP personnel and dependents.