Four new provincial police directors formally assumed their post in Western Visayas following a turnover ceremony Monday afternoon as part of the preparations for the May 2022 national and local elections.
Police Brig. Gen. Flynn E. Dongbo, director of the Police Regional Office Western Visayas (PRO6), in his message said the reshuffle of commanders is implemented nationwide as directed by Philippine National Police chief, Gen. Dionardo Carlos.
Dongbo added that it is important to also put in place their preparations for the elections amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We conduct this ceremony to set the tone for our anti-criminality and other campaigns this elections season. This is done so you can perform your duty to the best interest of the public without lingering familiarity and undue influence from local officials during the election period,” said Dongbo, who presided over the turnover ceremony at the Camp Martin Delgado headquarters here.
Col. Gilbert T. Gorero of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) was replaced by Col. Adrian V. Acollador; Col. Pablito B. Asmod Jr of Guimaras PPO was succeeded by Col. Richard B. Baluis; Col. Roy B. Parena of Antique PPO was replaced by Col. Alexander G. Mariano; and Col. Romy I. Palgue of Negros Occidental PPO with Col. Leo B. Pamittan as his successor.
Dongbo said their relief does not mean that they are under the influence of local politicians but they just would like to “remove any doubt”.
He lauded the outgoing provincial directors for leading their units in ensuring the health and safety protocols and forging strong partnerships with stakeholders on top of their law enforcement responsibilities.
Gorero is now chief of the PRO 6 Regional Operations and Management Division while the rest of the officers are assigned at the Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit (RPHAU).
During the ceremony, the Antique PPO outgoing and incoming directors were not present since Mariano is still complying with travel requirements for inbound travelers from Manila.
Mariano and Pamittan are both from the national headquarters while Acollador was chief of PRO6 Regional Operations Division and Baluis was head of the PRO6 Regional Comptrollership Division before their assumption to their current post.
“Gentlemen always bear in mind that this new assignment given to you is another opportunity not only to continue what you have started but also to deliver more than what you have already accomplished,” Dongbo said to the new provincial police directors. (PNA)
