It is undeniable that the proliferation of illegal drugs is still the number one problem the police in Central Visayas are facing. Despite scoring big in several operations, the campaign against drug dealers and pushers is still far from over.
At least, there's already been no letup in the drive against such menace. The intensified crackdown is now extending to other areas in the region outside Cebu, the country's biggest market for illegal drugs outside Metro Manila.
Of course, we have to recognize former Police Regional Office-7 director Chief Superintendent Prudencio Tom Bañas for the success. It was Bañas, during his 18-month stint at the PRO-7, who ordered a heightened crusade against illegal drugs across the region.
Now, the public is hoping that with a new name taking over the PRO-7 command, the strengthened campaign against illegal drugs will continue. It is good Chief Supt Manuel Gaerlan vowed to do more against criminality, admitting that he was inspired by the performance of his predecessor.
Well, let's see how Gaerlan will fare. With only ten days into his new assignment, it's too early for the public to judge his capability. He will still have many months to do his job of further improving the image of the regional police headquarters.
But what lies ahead is really a big challenge for Gaerlan and his men. Aside from maintaining peace and order during the holidays, the police will also have their hands full securing two major events in the first month of 2016.
It is a fact that securing the annual Sinulog festivities has been a problem for the police. But because Cebu is bracing to host the International Eucharistic Congress also in January, authorities will certainly be facing a security nightmare.
As the one now calling the shots at the PRO-7, Gaerlan should not think about having to compete with the performance of the previous leadership. Yes, he has his own style. But that does not mean he needs to discontinue the effective programs of his predecessor.
Gaerlan can surely implement his own programs because his office needs more teeth for it to be more effective. But he also needs to continue those successful programs that Bañas had started, especially on the campaign against crimes.