Sweet homecoming: La Union honors son Aberin for inspiring life story as police officer
They say home is where our story begins. And what else is sweeter than being called back home to honor your inspiring life story.
That joy and pride was felt by National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin when the Provincial Government of La Union called to inform him that he would be honored for the significant marks he made as an officer of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
On Tuesday, June 17, Aberin received conferred two Resolutions of Commendation during the 153rd Regular Session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of La Union, the province’s highest policymaking body.
“This moment reminds me that before the command, before the rank—there is the place that made you. And when that place calls you back, not for help, but to honor your work, you listen. And you keep going,” said Aberin in his speech before the provincial lawmakers.
The commendations cited what the Sangguniang Panlalawigan described as his uncompromising commitment to public service, his discipline-driven command, and a brand of leadership that continues to reshape the culture of urban policing.
Aberin took over the helm of the Metro Manila police force in November last year and since then, hundreds of thousands were apprehended as he stood his ground in implementing the ordinances of local government units in the National Capital Region.
From smoking and drinking in public to using videoke beyond the allowable time, the aggressive police operations also resulted in the NCR local government units earning millions in revenues through fines collected from violators.
The reason is simple, according to Aberin: There is a need to bring back discipline in Metro Manila and in doing so, bigger and worst criminal activities are prevented since would be criminals are being sent a strong message that the cops are there to get them.
Such stand, as well as his achievements in accounting “uncatchable” wanted persons, earned him the spot as among the top contenders for the PNP chief post.
Against a national backdrop where trust in institutions remains a daily challenge, Aberin’s return to La Union carried no fanfare—only facts: Fewer crimes, faster response, better visibility.
And far from the streets of Metro Manila where he leads the country’s most visible police force, Aberin stood in the provincial hall not as a commander, but as a son of La Union—recognized not for headlines, but for consistency, clarity of direction, and results that ripple far beyond the capital.