PNP chief reminds Northern Mindanao cops to gear up for 2022 polls

FILE PHOTO: Philippine National Police chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos. INQUIRER/NIñO JESUS ORBETA

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—The new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has reminded officers in the region to get ready to secure next year’s local and national elections.

Gen. Dionardo Carlos presided over the leadership turnover of the police regional command at Camp Alagar here with the retirement of Brig. Gen. Rolando Anduyan.

Anduyan was replaced by Brig. Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.

Carlos said they are now checking if there are those from among the ranks who have relatives who are running for any elective position.

“If they have relatives running in that area, we will temporarily transfer them to another area. They can return to their posts after the elections,” Carlos said.

Furthermore, he said no changes will be made to current leadership positions.

“There will be no revamp. But if there are those who are retiring, then we will replace them,” he said.

Carlos added he would continue the “intensified cleanliness policy” (ICP) introduced by his predecessor, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar.

The ICP was aimed at correcting minor and small problems in the service. It also promotes good manners and right conduct among the members of the PNP organization.

“The decorum of the police is very important, especially in public, how we speak. We should be courteous to the public. If possible, we offer a smile,” Carlos said.

For her part, Lt. Col. Michelle Olaivar, the regional police spokesperson, said the ICP should be a part of being a police officer.

“As public servants, being courteous is a must,” Olaivar said.