New Zamboanga Peninsula top cop vows police presence in communities

Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding takes over the command of Police Regional Office 9 on Friday in Zamboanga City. Photo by Julie S. Alipala

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding reminded Zamboanga Peninsula’s police force to adhere to ethical standards and vowed police presence in communities as he took over as their regional director on Friday.

“Transparency, accountability, and adherence to the highest ethical standards are the guiding principles of our actions. We must consistently hold ourselves and each other accountable, for it is through these values that we earn the respect and trust of the public,” Masauding said during a command turnover ceremony presided by Police Lt. General Michael John Dubria, Chief of Directorial Staff of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Masauding replaced Police Brig. Gen. Neil Alinsangan, who served the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9) since August 17, 2022, as caretaker. He will be heading the PNP’s Directorate for Plans as its director.

Masauding then urged his 8,000 police officers in the Zamboanga Peninsula to confront challenges head-on, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the people in the region.

“Public safety remains the utmost priority for the PNP. Ensuring the safety and security of the community is my commitment to the people of Region 9,” he vowed.

“Expect police presence in the community. I recognize the importance of community engagement and partnership. We must strive to build strong relationships with the communities we serve, based on trust, respect, and empathy. By actively listening to their concerns, addressing their needs, and involving them in our decision-making processes, we can achieve sustainable and impactful change,” Masauding explained.

Masauding was director of the PNP’s Finance Service when he was handpicked by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to head PRO9.

“I would like to express my gratitude to President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos for his approval of my designation, ” Masauding said during his acceptance speech at Bigkis Lahi Hall inside the Camp Romeo Abendan in Barangay Mercedes.

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