Police Col. Josefino Ligan formally took over as the new chief of the Northern Police District (NPD) during a turnover ceremony at the NPD headquarters in Caloocan City on Saturday, October 19.
(Photos from Northern Police District)
The ceremony was attended by Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, Deputy Regional Director for Operations, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Penones Jr., and other police officials.
Col. Ligan replaced Brig. Gen. Rizalito Gapas who had led the Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela (Camanava) police force since July 2023.
Prior to his new appointment, Ligan served as deputy director for administration of Eastern Police District (EPD) and as a deputy director for operations of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).
He was also a deputy director for operations of NPD, former chief district directorial staff at QCPD. He also served as director of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO).
Meanwhile, Sandoval expressed her gratitude to the outgoing NPD director, Brig. Gen. Gapas, for maintaining the peace and order in Malabon City.
“Maraming salamat outgoing district director Brig. Gen. Rizalito Gapas para sa pagsiguro sa kaligtasan at kaayusan sa Malabon at sa mga karatig-bayan nito (Thank you very much, outgoing district director Brig. Gen. Rizalito Gapas for ensuring the safety and order in Malabon and its neighboring towns),” she said.
She also welcomed the incoming NPD chief, assuring him of the city government’s full support in the implementation of various initiatives.
“Pagbati rin kay NPD incoming officer-in-charge PCol. Josefino D. Ligan! Makakaasa kayo sa na susuporta at makikipagtulungan ang pamahalaang lungsod sa pagpapatupad ng mga programa para sa mas mas ligtas at payapang Malabon (Congratulations as well to NPD incoming officer-in-charge PCol. Josefino D. Ligan! You can count on the full support and cooperation of the city government in implementing programs for a safer and more peaceful Malabon),” Sandoval said.
In response, Ligan expressed his appreciation to Brig. Gen Gapas’ leadership and vowed to continue his predecessor’s initiatives.
“Sir, your dedication and achievements have made a significant impact on our district, and I intend to build the bond on the strong foundation you have established. Rest assured that the programs you have initiated will be continued,” he said.
“Thank you for this incredible opportunity, I am excited to lead with passion and commitment and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together,” he added.