CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama’s long battle for a city police chief of his choice is slowly seeing the light of the day.
Following a formal submission of five chief of police nominees by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 Director Marcelo Garbo, Rama yesterday signed the endorsement of his choice, Senior Supt. Noli Romana.
Rama expressed gratitude that finally, his right was recognized.
“I am glad that they are now becoming human,†the mayor told reporters.
Garbo earlier pushed for permanent appointment of then OIC Cebu City Police Office Chief Mariano Natuel, Jr., who was not acknowledged by Rama.
Garbo finally gave in to the mayor’s insistence of his right to choose the chief of police which is provided in the Local Government Code.
Garbo earlier said he is not convinced of the performance of Romana, whose two officials were reportedly involved in illegal gambling.
Romana is currently the director of the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office.
But Rama defended his favored candidate saying Romana must be given the chance to explain and that it is not good for a top official to put down his own men.
“Dili ko kasabot nganung dauton niya nga iya ra man ng sakop. Ako, dili ko gustong dauton si Natuel. Romana should be here and should be able to serve as my chief of police,†he said.
Senior Supt. Mariano Natu-el replaced Sr. Supt. Melvin Buenafe who was relieved from CCPO last December. (FREEMAN)