Cebuano police colonel appointed as new Antique PNP chief

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has appointed a Cebu native to lead the 1,091-strong Antique Police Provincial Office (AnPPO).

Col. Ryan Devaras, a member of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 2001, was designated as officer-in-charge of AnPPO effective Jan. 23, 2026.

Devaras, the outgoing chief of the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division (RIDMD), succeeds Col. Lea Rose Peña.

Peña is expected to assume Devaras’ vacated post at the RIDMD.

Her relief was anticipated, as she is set to complete her two-year assignment next month.

Before his current role under Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), Devaras served as chief of the Regional Intelligence Unit 6.

He also previously held the position of deputy city director for administration at the Cebu City Police Office.

Devaras said he would prioritize the implementation of the PNP Focused Agenda, which he described as the guiding blueprint for his leadership—from the regional down to the municipal police offices.

He added that his administration would intensify the campaign against criminality, particularly illegal drugs, as well as anti-insurgency efforts.