Tuaño stunned by Iloilo police station in former restroom

By Jennifer P. Rendon

ILOILO CITY — Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño was appalled to learn that a former restroom of a public gymnasium is being used as the police station in San Rafael, Iloilo.

“Hindi katanggap-tanggap na ganong uri ng environment ang pinagtatrabahuhan ng ating kapulisan,” Tuaño said.

When he was first informed about the situation, Tuaño said he initially did not believe the report.

But an inspection on Sept. 13 confirmed that the San Rafael Municipal Police Station is housed in what used to be a restroom of a covered gymnasium.

The region’s top police official said remnants of the former restroom are still visible.

“Literal na ang shower post ng dating CR is existing pa rin. And so is the sink,” he said.

Tuaño also confirmed that the station’s walls are made of plywood.

During the inspection, Tuaño was accompanied by Iloilo Police Provincial Office director Col. Bayani Razalan.

He also met with Vice Mayor Roberto Belleza Jr. to discuss plans to improve the police station.

Following the inspection, PRO-6’s Regional Logistics and Research and Development Division (RLRDD) and Regional Comptrollership Division (RCD) assessed the station’s physical structure as part of efforts to develop short- and long-term plans for the facility.

Officials from the two divisions recently visited the station to assess the improvements needed.

“Dinala na nila ang architect doon for the plan. It might not be grand but we expect that in one month matatapos na ang renovation,” he said.

The local government unit has also identified a lot for a possible permanent Philippine National Police building.

The longer-term plan for a new police station could begin in 2027.

Tuaño said he intends to visit other police stations in Iloilo province that do not occupy standard PNP buildings.