CHIEF Supt. Marcelo Garbo vowed to intensify crime prevention efforts as he assumed the post of director of the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7).
Garbo said he will focus on the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS), which he implemented as PRO-7 deputy regional director for operations from 2008 to 2010.
Under PIPS, more policemen will be deployed in crowded areas and civilian volunteers will be tapped in preventing crimes.
In a turnover ceremony last Monday, Director General Nicanor Bartolome, chief of the Philippine National Police, installed Garbo as the new PRO-7 chief, replacing Chief Supt. Ager Ontog.
Bartolome said the achievements of Ontog should inspire Garbo in leading the 5,000-strong policemen in Central Visayas.
In his speech, Ontog cited accomplishments during his stint such as the foiling of the Sept. 5 armored van robbery at the Robinsons Place and the raid on unlicensed gun manufacturers in Danao City where 13 persons were arrested./CORRESPONDENT CHITO O. ARAGON