LEGAZPI CITY, Albay – Philippine National Police chief Police Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. graced the 122nd Police Service Anniversary of the Police Regional Office-5 in Camp Gen. Simeon Ola here on Friday, Oct. 13.
ACORDA (PNP FB)
Outstanding policemen, partner civic organizations, presentation of accomplishments, blessing and turnover of 20 patrol jeep single cabs, including one personnel carrier, and distribution of 38 medical kits were held in the event with the theme “Nagkakaisang Pulisya at Pamayanan tungo sa Mapayapa at Maunlad na Bansa.”
PRO-5 Director Police Brig. Gen Westrimundo Obinque said that the celebration holds a great significance as it honors the historic inception of organized police service.
"It is also a time to express our profound appreciation for the tireless efforts of the brave men and women of the PNP who work diligently to ensure that peace and harmony prevail throughout our nation. The PNP has not only remained relevant to this day but has also upheld its integrity and moral ascendancy while faithfully fulfilling its mandate to the nation and its people," Obinque said.
Acorda led the inauguration and blessing of the PRO-5 armory and warehouse and turned over 300 basic assault rifles and various internal security operations equipment.
He also led the inauguration of Regional Forensic Unit 5 building inside Camp Ola.
"The newly constructed Regional Forensic Unit 5 building was also inaugurated, further enhancing the region's forensic capabilities," said Obinque.
Eight PNP officers and two non-uniformed personnel (NUP) were recognized during the program which was also attended by various government and private agencies and officials, including Albay Rep. Joey Salceda.
Five members of the Daraga police who defend their posts from New People's Army (NPA) attack that resulted to the killing of two communist fighters were also feted.
“Five personnel from Daraga MPS were also accorded with Medalya ng Kadakilaan, namely, Police Lt. Col. Edmindo A. Cerillo Jr., Master Sgt. Joseph B. Lozardo, Staff Sgt. Abraham M. Villanueva III, Corporal Lister Mae A. Baratilla, and Corporal John Eric C. Pavia," Police Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO-5 spokesperson, said.
Other awardees were the PRO-5 Regional Medical Dental Unit 5, Regional Forensic Unit 5, Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, Sorsogon City Police Office, Daet Municipal Police Station, Camarines Sur 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and 501st Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5.
The Naga City Police Office, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5, and Naga City Mobile Force Company received special awards.
"PNP-PRO 5 remains united in its unwavering support for the PNP leadership and its commitment to combat those who seek to disrupt peace and order in our midst. We pledge to actively engage the public in our collective effort to maintain law and order, ensuring that we all reap the rewards of development and growth," Calubaquib said.
Moreover, we reaffirm our dedication to conducting our duties with the utmost integrity and accountability, setting an example of the kind of leadership required to overcome the challenges of our time. We shall remain the guardians of peace, upholding the values that make our nation strong and united."