New Negros top cop takes the helm, pledges to uphold and advance policing gains

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD City – As Police Colonel Rainerio De Chavez took over as the new acting provincial director of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) yesterday, he acknowledged the challenge of maintaining the office’s successful record.

De Chavez succeeded Police Colonel Leo Pamittan in a ceremony presided over by Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky, the newly-designated acting director of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-6, at Nocppo headquarters’ Kanlaon Hall.

Reflecting on Nocppo’s distinction as the best provincial police office in the country in 2023, De Chavez, in a media interview, admitted to the daunting task ahead of him but committed to either meet or surpass the high standards set by his predecessor. “Honestly, it’s very challenging, but rest assured that I will strive at least to match, if not exceed, the quality of policing that our personnel can deliver,” he stated.

In his inaugural address, De Chavez promised to perpetuate the programs and initiatives of Nocppo aligned with the overall thrust of the Philippine National Police (PNP), reinforcing the values and mission of the province.

De Chavez emphasized his commitment to proactive and sincere law enforcement aimed at yielding substantive results, rather than mere performative accomplishments. He reiterated his resolve to combat all forms of criminality, insurgency, and terrorism vigorously.

He also highlighted the importance of Nocppo personnel’s morale and welfare, recognizing that human resources are the organization’s greatest asset. “I believe in the power of appreciation and recognition. When individuals feel valued for their contributions, they are motivated to contribute more significantly to our collective goals,” he remarked.

However, he was clear that any misconduct, drug involvement, corruption, or other illegal activities among the ranks would be dealt with severely and decisively.

De Chavez assured that the integrity of all PNP personnel would be a priority, with the enforcement of the Preventive and Punitive approaches of the Internal Disciplinary Mechanism. “Our intelligence operatives will be vigilant, working in tandem with investigative units,” he said.

He further pledged to leverage advancements in information communication and technology to adapt to the rapid changes in the country’s peace and security landscape.

Continued engagement with the community, sustaining the “Kasimbayan” gains, and strengthening partnerships for crime prevention and disaster response were also among his key commitments.

“We must remain humble in our service but firm in enforcing the law, ensuring that justice reaches all corners of our jurisdiction,” he declared, signaling an all-out offensive against wanted persons and criminal elements.

Acknowledging the environmental and tourist attractions in the region, De Chavez vowed to work alongside other agencies to preserve and promote the natural beauty of places like Mt. Kanlaon and various resorts.

Finally, he committed to enhancing the existing directives and policies of the Provincial Command, drawing on the support of stakeholders, the Provincial Government, local units, and the community at large.

De Chavez, with previous assignments at the Directorate for Intelligence in Camp Crame and acting director roles in Batangas and Rizal provinces, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

Wanky, in his remarks, encouraged De Chavez to continue Nocppo’s robust campaigns, particularly against illegal drugs, criminalities, and insurgency, to bring an end to these persistent issues.

Pamittan, in his parting message, expressed gratitude to the Negrenses for their unwavering support during his tenure from December 6, 2023, to February 15, 2024.