Country’s top cop mans checkpoint in Gen. Santos City

Police Director General Oscar Albayalde mans a checkpoint in Gen. Santos City on Tuesday Feb. 19, 2019. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

GEN. SANTOS CITY — Police Director General Oscar Albayalde surprised motorists here on Tuesday afternoon when he was manning the checkpoint and inspecting incoming vehicles at the national highway.

“I was surprised to see him at a police checkpoint, inspecting vehicles,” said Michael Estaniel, driver of a passenger van plying Koronadal City-Gen. Santos City route, after he saw the country’s top cop about 4 p.m.

“It must be Albayalde, I am sure,” Estaniel said. “I saw him only on TV, now he is here, what a day for me,” he added.

Accompanied by Chief Supt. Eliseo Tam Rasco, police regional director for the Soccsksargen region, Albayalde flagged down vehicles, shook hands and waved to motorists as they entered the city along one of the major thoroughfares here.

“Good afternoon po, welcome to GenSan have a safe trip,” Albayalde greeted motorists after briefly inspecting their vehicles.

He served the police checkpoint for about an hour, one of the activities Albayalde performed as a guest of honor of the Police Regional Office (PRO-12) to mark the police’s 28th foundation anniversary.

During the gathering, Albayalde urged all police law enforcers in the region “to keep the same spirit of solidarity and dedication to duty” especially as the police prepared to secure the country’s midterm elections.

“We must be true to our vows and remain faithful to the organization,” Albayalde said. “We must wear our uniform with pride even as we must go the extra mile to make the PNP proud. This, I must say, would be the best tribute we can give to the PNP.” /lzb