The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) recognized the "exemplary performance" of three Philippine National Police (PNP) officers during its 57th founding anniversary on Friday, Sept. 8.
With the theme “Exemplifying Accountability and Integrity in the Police Service”, the event was highlighted by the virtual presentation of the awards to Patrolman Randy T. Agdeppa of the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Police Office (PPO), Staff Sgt. Lloyd C. Elefante of Pampanga PPO, and Chief Master Sgt. Mario F. Bariquit of Davao del Sur PPO.
Agdeppa was recognized for rescuing "without hesitation and unmindful of the risk and threat to his own life" a fellow police officer who accidentally got electrocuted by a hanging electrical live wire while they were conducting search and rescue operation in Brgy. Bone South, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya on Oct. 30, 2022.
Meanwhile, Elefante rescued a family of six members from drowning during a flashflood at Palakol River in Floridablanca, Pampanga on June 19, 2023.
Lastly, Bariquit was cited for exhibiting courage and for his achievement in the neutralization of notorious robbery with rape suspects in Davao del Sur, as well as the neutralization of the "Cansing Criminal Gang" which was notorious for kidnap-for-ransom operations in the province.
“Their contributions in the performance of their duty is a testament of their dedication to the police service that reflect great merit upon themselves and the police organization,’’ the NAPOLCOM said in a statement.
Aside from the police officers, the NAPOLCOM also recognized four community service individuals "in recognition and sincere appreciation for their invaluable contribution and support to the programs and projects of the commission."
Luke Bruns, deputy director of the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs representing the United States Embassy, received recognition for contributing in the advancement of NAPOLCOM officials by providing Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) through various capability building trainings and seminars for NAPOLCOM personnel.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, represented by Kirby Tibayan, Olivier George Lermet, and JoAnn Emilene De Belen, was hailed for its "steadfast commitment in strengthening the institutional capacity and promoting good governance in the NAPOLCOM and the PNP" through the provision of training, technical support, and resources which bolstered the capabilities of both agencies in combating crime and maintaining peace and order.
"Through their involvement in various community service programs and support in advancing crime prevention, information sharing, and intelligence cooperation, the overall security framework of the Philippines has been strengthened," the NAPOLCOM noted.
Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) President Engelbert C. Caronan Jr. and DAP Senior Vice President Magdalena L. Mendoza also received honors for assisting the NAPOLCOM in formulating a comprehensive and evidenced-based crime prevention program.
Two special awardees, Ronald Y. Bello, musical director of the NAPOLCOM chorale, and Cristina DL Tan, former president of the NAPOLCOM Chorale, were also recognized in acknowledgement of their "gesture of patriotism, goodwill and generosity" for assigning, conveying, and transferring their rights and interests in the NAPOLCOM Hymn pursuant to the Deed of Assignment and Transfer of Rights they executed on July 13, 2023 in favor of the NAPOLCOM.
Bello was the composer and arranger of the Himno Pambansang Komisyon ng Pulisya or the NAPOLCOM Hymn while Tan was the lyricist.
Plaques and certificates were also given to NAPOLCOM model supervisors and associates, loyalty awardees, and retirees in recognition of their commendable performance, loyalty, commitment and dedication to the Commission that significantly contributed to the accomplishments of NAPOLCOM programs, projects and activities.
Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairman Richard P. Palpal-latoc was the guest of honor and speaker during the hybrid anniversary program.