Wenceslao pledges police readiness, presence

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — “Your police force is here for you.”

This was the assurance given by Police Col. Dennis Wenceslao as he officially assumed command of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) during a turnover ceremony at the Nocppo headquarters in Barangay Estefania on Tuesday.

The event was presided over by Police Col. Dennis Esguerra, deputy regional director for administration of the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), on behalf of PRO-NIR director Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, and attended by Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson.

Wenceslao pledged to lead with cooperation and commitment, aligning with the seven-point agenda of acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

“To the people of Negros Occidental, I give you my personal assurance: your police force is here for you—ready to listen, act, and serve with integrity,” Wenceslao said.

Nartatez’s seven-point agenda focuses on enhancing police operations management; strengthening campaigns against illegal drugs, loose firearms, and terrorism; implementing risk management strategies; protecting vital installations; improving event security; promoting personnel welfare; and ensuring resource efficiency.

Wenceslao said his leadership will be grounded in cooperation, expressing confidence that unity, discipline, and determination will help build a culture of peace and sustainable public safety in the province.

“I recognize that this new role is not just about leadership, but about building stronger bridges of cooperation,” he said.

He acknowledged the challenges ahead but said he believes that with unity and unwavering dedication, they can overcome any obstacle.

“I am here to listen, lead, and fight alongside you,” he told Nocppo personnel. “Let’s achieve great things together.”

Wenceslao thanked Gov. Lacson for entrusting him with the post.

“I am honored by the trust given to me,” he said. “I did not expect this.”

He also expressed gratitude to outgoing director Police Col. Rainerio De Chavez, commending his leadership and the foundation he laid at Nocppo.

De Chavez served as provincial police director for a year and a half and has been reassigned to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

Before taking the Nocppo post, Wenceslao headed the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division of PRO-NIR.

Gov. Lacson said he has full confidence in Wenceslao’s capability to lead, citing the need for fresh vision and stronger resolve in addressing criminality, illegal drugs, and threats to public order.

“The work of maintaining peace and order is never easy,” Lacson said.

“But with the PNP and the provincial government working together, I am confident we will continue to make meaningful progress.”

The governor also praised De Chavez for his professionalism, discipline, and strong coordination with local government units and stakeholders.

“We salute you for your service and the legacy you leave behind,” he said.

Lacson pledged the provincial government’s full support to Wenceslao and called the turnover ceremony a reaffirmation of their shared duty to protect communities and uphold the rule of law.

“Let this turnover ceremony be a reaffirmation of our shared duty to uphold the law, protect our communities, and safeguard the future of Negros Occidental, as our solemn duty to God, to country, and to the Negrenses we have sworn to serve,” he said.

“May this remind us that true leadership lies not in the authority vested, but in the service rendered and the trust faithfully earned from the people.”

“With that, we may realize our vision of a province where peace and order prevail, where justice is upheld, and where every Negrense may live free from fear and with dignity, peace, and hope for the future.”

Col. Esguerra also expressed confidence in Wenceslao’s professionalism and dedication, saying he believes Nocppo will reach new heights under his command.

He said today’s challenges call for innovation, stakeholder collaboration, and firm adherence to the PNP’s core values.

Esguerra encouraged Nocppo personnel to extend their full support and cooperation to their new provincial director.

PRO-NIR commended De Chavez for his performance in law enforcement, crime prevention, and community engagement.

Esguerra said De Chavez’s commitment and leadership left a lasting impact on the province and set a high standard for the police force.