News Releases

PRO6 celebrates 21 st PNP Foundation Anniversary with MOU Signing and Awarding Ceremony (January 30 , 2012)

Police Regional Office 6 held its traditional Monday flag raising with Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing and awarding ceremony as it celebrates 21 st PNP Foundation Anniversary this morning (January 30) at Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr., awarded medals to seven (7) deserving PNP personnel of this region.

There were (4) four personnel from Negros Provincial Police Office (Himamaylan City Police Station and Kabankalan City Police Station) who had been awarded Medalya ng Kasanayan (PNP Efficiency Medal) for the arrest of Jose Zulueta y Suares, Mitchie Ann Macasa and Joy Cervales for violation of RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and RA 8294 (Illegal Possession of Firearm and Ammunitions).

The awardees were Police Superintendent Antonietto Y Cañete, Police Senior Inspector Anthony G Grande, PO3 John derrick G Capunong and PO3 Rune Quirico B Bandola.

PO3 Francisco B Lindero Jr., was awarded with Medalya ng Papuri (PNP Commendation Medal) for winning 2 nd runner up and the Most Active Blogger Award during the 1 st Journ.ph Best Information Officer (IO) Blogger Contest 2011.

PO2 Nida L Gregas of Aklan Provincial Police Office and PO2 Ria May S Dela Cruz of Antique Provincial Police Office were also awarded with Medalya ng Papuri (PNP Commendation Medal) for being the Best Performing Information Officer of their respective province for 2011 during the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) Year-end Conference in Region 6.

Likewise, Certificate of Appreciation had been awarded to the the Punong Barangay and Brgy Tanods of Brgy. Nazaret, Buenavista, Guimaras for their invaluable services rendered to Police Regional Office 6 as members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) during the conduct of hot pursuit operation, which resulted to the immediate arrest of Julius Gabayeron Y Importante on December 13, 2011 for the violation of RA 8353 (Rape) in relation to RA 7610 (Special Protection of Child against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act).

The awardees were Hon. Zenaida T Carumba, Mirjohn Gabiota, Dennis J Gabileño, Leonard G Celiz, and Hernane Gabiota Jr.

Whereas, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Higher Educational Institutions in the city and province of Iloilo offering Criminology Course and the Philippine National Police in Western Visayas was signed by Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr., together with the Presidents of the four (4) Higher Educational Institutions (Iloilo Doctor’s College, St Therese- MTC Colleges, University of Iloilo-Phinma and West Visayas State University- Lambunao Campus).

The Memorandum of Understanding aims to accommodate graduating criminology students of the aforesaid Higher Educational Institutions who are taking practicum to undergo their on-the-job training program at Philippine National Police.

It will also provide good training grounds to criminology students through better access to police works and information regarding the basic duties of a police officer that will help in their preparation for a career in law enforcement administration.

Moreover, Atty. Helen J Catalbas, Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Tourism, Regional Office 6 was the Guest of Honor and Speaker for the said celebration, who gave emphasis on the importance of peace and order in the promotion of tourism in our region.

More than 1,000 police officers get promotion in Western Visayas (January 27 , 2012)

Sixty-four (64) police officers from Police Regional Office 6 Headquarters represented the 1,137 newly-promoted police officers both for Police Commissioned Officer and Police Non-Commissioned Officer in Western Visayas during the ceremonial pinning of ranks today (January 27) at Police Regional Office 6 Parade Grounds, Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr. led the pinning of rank insignias to the 64 newly-promoted police officers of Police Regional Office 6, headed by Police Superintendent Kim P Legada of the Regional Operations and Plans Division.

Querol, in his message to the newly-promoted police officers said that, they must be thankful for their long wait is already over and the fruit of their labor has finally

come as they received their promotion orders after a tedious and somewhat costly process they had experienced during their application for promotion.

“Your promotion today is also your achievement; however, always remember that promotion to the next higher rank entails more power and it comes with great responsibility and a mission, which is to fulfill all duties and responsibilities assigned to your rank and position,” Querol stressed.

A total of 1,046 Police Non-Commissioned Officers got promoted, 988 from Police Regional Office 6 (Aklan- 92; Antique- 88; Bacolod City- 103; Capiz- 124; Guimaras- 37; Iloilo City- 93; Iloilo- 199; Negros Occidental- 184; Regional Headquarters- 61; and Regional Public Safety Battalion- 7) and 58 from the PNP National Support Units and for the Police Commissioned Officers, a total of 91 with 85 from Police Regional Office 6 and 6 from the PNP National Support Units.

The ceremonial pinning of ranks for the newly-promoted PNP personnel was simultaneously conducted today (January 27) along with other regional, city and provincial police offices nationwide.

Querol lauds security, public for peaceful Dinagyang (January 24, 2012)

The region's top cop lauded the security personnel and the public for keeping the week-long Dinagyang celebration peaceful and orderly.

Police Regional Office 6 director, C/Supt. Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., said, except for the petty crimes, no major crime incident happened for the duration of Dinagyang festivity.

"We have not monitored any stabbing or shooting incident or such other incidents that could have disturbed the peace and order situation, especially during the highlights of the celebration," he said adding that the support and cooperation of the public contributed a lot in the success of the security coverage for the Dinagyang festival.

In the incident monitoring report of Iloilo City Police Office, a total of 44 incidents were recorded in January 21-22. Alarm and scandal cases topped the list with 30 incidents, physical injuries – 6, theft – 2, malicious mischief – 1, estafa – 3, vagrancy – 1 and violation of the City Ordinance 138 or illegal possesion of illegal deadly weapon – 1.

Querol believed the temporary suspension of permit to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) helped greatly for the success of the security coverage.

The suspension of PTCFOR or gun ban ran from January 15 to 23. ICPO reported two violators of gun ban.

The first violator was Hernando Bucana, 56, resident of Brgy. Block 17, Mandurriao, Iloilo City who allegedly committed alarm and scandal by illegally fired  his caliber .38 revolver without serial number.

Another violator was Romer Joquiño, 31, married and a resident of Delgado St., Maasin, Iloilo. He  was accosted in a checkpoint operation at Brgy. Dungon A, Jaro, Iloilo City about 5:10 p.m. of January 17. Recovered from Joquiño was one caliber .40 pistol (Glock) with serial number HZH677.

Drilon graces ICPO’s launching of the e-Blotter system (January 23 , 2012)

  The Iloilo City Police Office director, Police Senior Superintendent Marietto M Valerio Sr., launched the PNP Crime Incident Reporting System or “e-blotter” system yesterday (January 22) at the Iloilo City Police Office Conference Room.

Last week, Police Regional Office 6 conducted a one-day seminar on the e-blotter system with 64 participants (investigators and crime registrars) from the city/provincial police offices and police stations in Western Visayas.

The participants were trained by the IT experts from the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management and Information Technology Management Service of the PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame.

The project aims to facilitate crime documentation and modernize data storage. It does not only promote paperless reporting but also provide fast, accurate and reliable transmission of crime information.

Meanwhile, the launching of the e-Blotter system at ICPO was graced by no less than the Senator of the Republic of the Philippines, Hon. Franklin M Drilon as the Guest of Honor and Speaker together with Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick E Mabilog, Police Chief Superintendent Mark Edison B Belarma, Deputy Director- DIPO Visayas and officers from the Command Group and Directorial Staff of Police Regional Office 6..

Drilon, in his message, said that he will always support the projects of the PNP especially on the peace and order aspect and projects, like, the e-Blotter system should be given assistance for its sustainability. Moreover, he said that he already proposed in the Senate that there should be an increase in the number of recruitment for police officers not just in the region but in the whole country from 6,000 to 10,000 recruits for this year.

“Everyone is equal before the law regardless of status, that is why, we need more policemen so we can better enforce the laws, we need them more on police visibility especially on the PNP frontline services for better coordination and response to the need of the public,” Drilon added.

He also said that he will financially support all the projects of the Ilonggo here in the city and in the province of Iloilo, likewise, the PNP’s projects in the region. ”Kahit piso hindi ko babawasan ang pera n’yo,” he stressed.

Querol: Alleged mining in Northern Iloilo, not true (January 17, 2012)

The police denied rumors circulating recently on the alleged illegal mining activities in a town in Northern Iloilo.

C/Supt. Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., director of Police Regional Office 6, said it is not true that a mining operation exists in Carles, Iloilo.

"There is no truth in it. We have verified the information with the Chief of Police and he confirmed that it was not mining," Querol said.

The issue stemmed from the report received by Carles Police Station from certain Hermenio Villanueva last Saturday (January 7) that a group of persons was digging holes in Igkalayo Island, Brgy. Bancal, Carles.

The investigation revealed that Villanueva owned the place that the group were digging holes. He, however, refused to take legal action against this group for intruding in his property but advised them to stop digging and leave the place.

The group was allegedly engaged in treasure hunting activity.

"Be wary of riding-in-tandem robbers"   - Querol (January 17, 2012)

            The region's top cop warned the public against motorcycle riding men as they maybe are robbers.

            Police Regional Office 6 director, C/Supt. Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., said the use of motorcyle for robbery becomes so common because of its convenience.

            "The use of motorcyles is one of the modus operandi of criminals to victimize lending collectors, commuters, peddlers, and the like," he said.

            The police monitored that, in most cases of riding-in-tandem robberies in the past, the perpetrators used motorcycle without plate number.

            Similar situation happened recently in Pavia, Iloilo where an Indian national was waylaid  by two unidentified men on board a blue Baja motorcycle.

            Ranjeet Singh, 27, was on board his service motorcycle when he was waylaid by the two suspects.    

            In a report of Pavia Police Station, one of the suspects was armed with  a gun while the other with a knife.

            Singh lost his collection amounting to P8,000 to the robbers.

            An investigation is still being conducted to identify the suspects that will lead to their arrest.

            Querol said all police units were reminded to intensify pro-active security measures against robbery incidents. "We have to enhance our checkpoints and chokepoints operations and police visibility 24 hours a day," he said.

            He also enjoined the public to be vigilant against riding-in-tandem criminals. "Please you report to the police if you see motorcycles without plate number," he said.    

Querol awards medals to deserving PNP personnel (January 16, 2012)

Police Regional Office 6 held its tradional Monday flag raising with awarding ceremony this morning (January 16) at Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgad, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., awarded the (11) eleven valiant Police Officers whose accomplishment in terms of peacekeeping is beyond compare.

Six (6) personnel from Iloilo City Police Office had been awarded Medalya ng Kagalingan (PNP Medal of Merit) for the arrest of Samuel Manejero y Quiling, one of the Most Wanted Persons in the province of Iloilo and suspect for the shooting of Nestor Calesterio, Kimberly Claire Umadhay last January 3, 2012 at JM Basa Street, Iloilo City and held hostage the person of Bernard Hu at St. Joseph Lumber at Solis Street, Iloilo City.

The awardees were Police Superintendent Giovannni A Musico, Police Superintendent Uldarico A Garbanzos, Police Chief Inspector Dandy B Deocampo, Police Chief Inspector Efren B Lozada, Police Officer 1 Lee J Demandante, and Police Officer 1 Michael F Malan.

Four (4) members of the Negros Occidental Police Office were also awarded Medalya ng Kasanayan (PNP Efficiency Medal) for the arrest of Rene Alvarez y Galor alias “Boy-boy”S and Reymund Ta-ala wanted persons for Murder, Attempted Murder, Frustrated Murder, Assault Upon Agent of Person in Authority, Violation of PD 1866 as amended by RA 8294 and Violation of RA 9516.

The awardees were Police Superintendent Antonietto Y Caniete, Police Senior Inspector Hercules Trigue, Police Officer 3 Leonel Verzosa, and Police Officer 2 Joelan G Vinson.

This accomplishment is indeed a manifestation that members of Police Regional Office 6 have been doing their job well in making Western Visayas peaceful and progressive place.

Further, Police Senior Superintendent Ligaya L Sim, the outgoing Chief, Police Regional Office 6 Crime Laboratory, is the resource speaker of the said ceremony. She emphasized that in order to be the best in one’s chosen field, we must always strive for excellence. It is in excellence where we can find the best public safety services that we can deliver to the people whom we had vowed to serve and protect.

PRO 6 holds seminar on e-blotter (January 16, 2012)

The Police Regional Office 6 opened this morning a one-day seminar on PNP Crime Incident Reporting System (e-Blotter) at the Multi Purpose Hall, Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Iloilo City.

There are 64 participants in the training that came from the different police stations, city and provincial police offices in Western Visayas.

Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., said that this e-Blotter will help in the identification and apprehension of criminals, improve the efficiency of criminal justice agencies and ultimately help reduce crimes through better planning and use of manpower, equipment and government resources.

He also said that it does not only facilitate crime documentation and modernize data storage, but also presents quick, fast and reliable transmission of crime information from police stations to the PNP headquarters and vice versa..

“If our investigation fails, we will not only compromise the integrity of our organization but also severe our partnership with the community,” Querol added.

He also emphasized that investigation must be impartial and serve only the best interest of justice.

After the one-day seminar, the program will be replicated in all police stations region wide.

The Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division of PRO 6 is the office with primary responsibility in facilitating the seminar.

PRO 6 holds seminar on e-blotter (January 16, 2012)

The Police Regional Office 6 opened this morning a one-day seminar on PNP Crime Incident Reporting System (e-Blotter) at the Multi Purpose Hall, Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Iloilo City.

There are 64 participants in the training that came from the different police stations, city and provincial police offices in Western Visayas.

Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., said that this e-Blotter will help in the identification and apprehension of criminals, improve the efficiency of criminal justice agencies and ultimately help reduce crimes through better planning and use of manpower, equipment and government resources.

He also said that it does not only facilitate crime documentation and modernize data storage, but also presents quick, fast and reliable transmission of crime information from police stations to the PNP headquarters and vice versa..

“If our investigation fails, we will not only compromise the integrity of our organization but also severe our partnership with the community,” Querol added.

He also emphasized that investigation must be impartial and serve only the best interest of justice.

After the one-day seminar, the program will be replicated in all police stations region wide.

The Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division of PRO 6 is the office with primary responsibility in facilitating the seminar.

Banks, pawnshops in WV warned of tunnel robbers (January 13, 2012)

The resurgence of "daga-daga" robberies in some parts of the country recently may also mean that they could be in Western Visayas anytime.

This, Police Regional Office 6 director, C/Supt. Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., warned business owners to be vigilant and inspect their establishments before closing especially for the weekend or long holidays.

Querol said "daga-daga" robbers target banks, pawnshops, jewelry stores and money changers business establishment.

"These business establishments usually store cash or high value merchandise," he said adding that "daga-daga" robbers are known to dig their way, unnoticed, into their target establishment.

In April 6 last year, "daga-daga" gang looted a store in San Jose, Antique. The suspects were arrested later in Iloilo City.

The modus operandi of this gang is to rent a place close to their target and they use drainage systems or dig their way into the business establishment.

The gang then uses acetylene torches and bolt cutters to open the vaults.

The top cop also directed all police unit commanders to coordinate with business owners and discuss the security measures against the robbers.

"We also reiterate our request to these business owners to install CCTV camera in their establishments," he said.

Querol warns public against street crimes; criminals may take advantage of Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang festivities

Don't be a victim of cellphone snatching, pickpockets and theft.

This is the stern warning of Police Regional Office 6 director, C/Supt. Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., to those who plan to witness the Ati-Atihan and Dinagyang festivities.

The highlights of Kalibo's Ati-Atihan Festival culminate with the street dance competition on Sunday, January 15, and tribe contest for Iloilo City's Dinagyang Festival on January 22.

It is expected that thousands of people will come to these events. 

Querol said the volume of devotees, revelers and spectators of these festivities may be taken advantage of by criminals.

"We want to prevent incidents of petty street crimes, like cellphone snatching, pickpockets and theft," he said.

He, however, enjoined the public to cooperate towards the realization of this goal.

"The best deterrence to these kinds of crimes is not to give criminals the opportunity to commit them. Hence, we should avoid flauting our mobile phones, jewelry and other valuables while in public places," he said.

He also said that crowded places are targets of these criminals to hold their illegal activities.

Meanwhile, it was reported earlier that about 1,000 police officers and volunteers were deployed to secure the Ati-Atihan and more than 1,500 for Dinagyang.

Checkpoints and other anti-crime operations are also being intensified to make these festivities peaceful and orderly.

PRO 6 celebrates 18 th PNP Ethics Day

Police Regional Office 6 celebrates the 18 th PNP Ethics Day this morning (January 9) with Guest of Honor and Speaker Atty. Rodolfo B Encajonado, Director of the Civil Service Commission, Regional Office 6 during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony at PRO6 Parade Grounds, Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

The 18 th PNP Ethics Day celebration is being observed by the entire PNP organization nationwide with a theme “Sustaining Honest and Efficient Police Service”.

This celebration’s mission is to ensure the successful conduct of the 18 th PNP Ethics Day Celebration with ethics related and moral values formation activities which are also vital to the organizational transformation of the whole Philippine National Police.

Atty. Encajonado in his speech said that the PNP is the only agency of the government that celebrates Ethics Day every year that is why the PNP should be lauded for its effort in recognizing the importance of ethics in everyday’s life of an individual especially of a police officer.

“That PNP member should have “moral” in performing their duties especially those who are at the front line of providing public safety services”, he added.

After the ceremony, a Thanksgiving mass was offered and officiated by the Regional Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Joel B Barallas (Police Superintendent), at the Chapel of the Most Holy Rosary, Camp Delgado followed by a moral recovery lecture at the same venue with Fr. Barallas as the resource speaker.

Crimes in WV dropped with "Patrulya ng Pulis"

The top cop of Western Visayas attributed the plummeting crime volume in the region to the implementation of the PNP's newest anti-crime strategy.

Police Regional Office 6 director, C/Supt. Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., said the "Patrulya ng Pulis" is deemed effective based on the registered crime volume comparing the period of its implementation to the same period in 2010.

The "Patrulya ng Pulis" was implemented only since November 2011.

The crime volume from November to December 2011 registered at 1,203 or 26 percent lower compared to 1,625 of the same period in 2010.

Under the "Patrulya ng Pulis" project, the 10 percent of uniformed personnel in regional and provincial headquarters performing administrative functions are deployed to perform patrol duties, especially in crime prone areas.

"Patrulya ng Pulis" is aimed to increase police visibility in areas of convergence, like terminals and major streets.

The personnel from the regional/provincial headquarters are obliged to render four hours of beat patrol duties every day.

Querol said the "Patrulya ng Pulis" involved more or less 500 personnel and covered more than 140 areas regionwide.

"They augment the strength of the territorial police units, especially in making police visibility in the streets, malls, banks, transport terminals, airports, seaports and other crowded places," he said.

Querol said the project will be sustained for it has been proven effective.

PNP warns public from carrying gun replicas

Toy guns cannot kill but they can cause the public to panic which may result to injuries and even death, especially in crowded places.

This, Police Regional Office 6 director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E. Querol, Jr.,  warns everyone against carrying or flaunting toy guns while in public places, especially during the Ati-Atihan and Dinagyang festivities.

"Most people have difficulties identifying a toy gun from a real firearm. If they see a person carrying a toy gun in areas of revelries, they might be alarmed and panicked thinking that he or she is carrying a real one," Querol said.

Querol observes that many toy guns nowadays do really look like real ones.

He also said that  the Firearms and Explosives Unit of PRO6 will be inspecting stores in the city that sell gun replicas.

"These toys [gun replicas] must be confiscated," he said.

  The campaign is related to the suspension of Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence as security measure for the upcoming festivities in Iloilo City and Kalibo, Aklan.

The suspension of PTCFOR will be effect on January 15 to 23, 2012 in Iloilo City during the Dinagyang Festival.

The recommendation of PRO6 for the suspension of PTCFOR in Kalibo, Aklan in relation to the celebration of Ati-Aithan Festival on January 9 to 15, 2012 is still pending for approval by the Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome, Chief of the Philippine National Police.

Mayor William S. Lachica of Kalibo wrote Querol requesting for the said suspension.

Lachica said gun ban is necessary to prevent a fatal situation due to gun-related situation.

“ Zero death on stray bullet in WV on New Year’s Eve”- Querol

Police Regional Office 6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., would like to officially announce that there is no recorded death on stray bullet incidents for 2011 New Year’s celebration in Western Visayas. This is after all reports from lower units were consolidated for submission to PNP NHQ, Camp Crame.

This is contrary to the local news report that was published on January 3, in one of the local newspapers in Iloilo City stating that stray bullet kills woman in Igbaras on New Year’s eve.

According to the Igbaras police, the woman victim Rosario Taleseo y Embalsado, 42, of Brgy. Lab-on, Igbaras, Iloilo was shot by Brgy Councilor Aniceto Esmedian in the said place at two o’clock in the morning of January 1, 2012.

Taleseo sustained gunshot wound on the right upper ear and was rushed to Guimbal District Hospital but unfortunately, declared DOA by the attending physician.

Recovered from the scene of incident are ten (10) empty shells of .45 cal pistol believed to have been fired from the suspect’s firearm.

As for the report on stray bullet incidents, there were 15 recorded reports all over Western Visayas.

Of the 15 reports on stray bullets, 14 came from Iloilo City Police Office and 1 from Iloilo Provincial Police Office with 2 reported victims and the other 13 just turned-over the slugs of unknown caliber they had recovered in their premises.

PNP Chief approves gun ban for Dinagyang Festival

The suspesion of Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence is expected to bolster the security coverage for the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City.

With the approval of Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome, Chief of Philippine National Police, gun ban will be implemented on January 15 to 23, 2012 in Iloilo City.

Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., director of Police Regional Office 6, sought the approval of Bartolome on the request of Iloilo City Police Office director, Police Senior Superintendent Marietto Valerio, Sr. with the concurrence of Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog for the suspension of the PTCFOR during the Dinagyang Festival.

With the total gun ban, all law enforcement officers are prohibited to carry their government-issued firearms when off-duty or not in proper uniform. The civilian gun holders are also warned not to bring their firearms to that effect.

"Dinagyang Festival is a premier tourism event in the city and one of the famous festivities in the country. Hence, it is expected that big number of local and foreign tourists, devotees and revelers will come and enjoy the celebration and we are mandated to ensure their safety," he said adding that the suspension of PTCFOR is also aimed to reduce crimes, particularly those crimes which are perpetrated with the use of firearms.

Querol said violators of the gun ban will be charged for illegal possession of firearms and, for civilian gun holders, revocation of their license to possess the firearm/s will also be imposed.

Querol also added that the gun ban also include the prohibition of carrying of deadly weapons.

“The suspension of PTCFOR this Dinagyang Festival is similar to that of the total gun ban during the past elections," he said.

Meanwhile, Querol also revealed that Mayor William S. Lachica of Kalibo, Aklan has pending request for the imposition of gun ban during the Ati-Atihan Festival.

Lachica underscored in his letter-request that "It is inevitable that there will be inebriated persons and annoyed individuals for some reasons that would likely to being a confrontation. To prevent a fatal situation due to gun-related situation, a gun ban is a must."

Querol recommended the letter of Lachica to the Chief, PNP for approval.

Cops tape muzzles of their guns

Police Regional Office 6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., leads the members of the region’s police force in a ceremonial taping of the muzzles of their guns this morning during the daily formation and accounting of personnel at PRO6 Multi-Purpose Hall, Camp Delgado, Iloilo City.

This activity pertains to the implementation of proactive measures against indiscriminate firing of guns during the revelries for the Yuletide season to prevent injuries and death to the public.

Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., said that though there were no recorded incidents of indiscriminate firing committed by the PNP members in the region for several years now, still the PNP must observe the traditional taping of muzzles of the PNP issued firearms during this season especially during New Year’s celebration to prevent our police in using their guns illegitimately and to further remind them that indiscriminate firing is prohibited and a big NO in the Philippine National Police.

“I have ordered my Chiefs of Police to organize and deploy police teams who will arrest and file appropriate criminal and/or administrative charges against any PNP personnel, gun owner or individual who will indiscriminately fire a gun during this season,” Querol added.

Provincial/City/Municipal police units will also conduct their own ceremonial taping of muzzles of firearms. They are also advised to invite gun clubs and gun owners during the ceremonies for public display of support to the campaign.

The taping of the muzzles of firearms will last until January 2 next year.

PRO6 has 155 additional quota for PO1

An additional quota nationwide of 2,261 for CY 2011 PO1 Recruitment Program has been approved by PNP Chief, Police Director General Nicanor A Bartolome.

Police Regional Offices 6, 7 and 8 are allocated with a combined quota of 465 slots for the rank of Police Officer 1 (PO1) to fill in the vacancies in the organization due to retirement, resignation, death, and dismissal.

The region’s top cop, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr., said this recruitment will eventually augment the needed personnel in police stations and public safety companies of the Philippine National Police nationwide.

For this recruitment, PRO6 is allotted a total quota of 155 for Western Visayas applicants.

However, the recruitment process like acceptance of folders, screening and initial assessment of applicants for Police Officers 1 is set at Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7) Headquaters, Camp Sergio Osmeňa, Cebu City.

Applicants must personally submit their documentary requirements to the Office of the Regional Personnel Human Resource and Development Division (RPHRDD) of Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7), in Cebu City for evaluation.

As provided for in Republic Act 6975 as amended, the minimum qualifications for Police Officer 1 (PO1) appointment are: (1) he or she must be a citizen of the Philippines, (2) a person of good moral character; (3) must passed the psychiatric or psychological, drug and physical tests, (4) must possess a formal baccalaureate degree, (5) must be eligible, (6) must not have been dishonorably discharged from military employment or dismissed for cause from any civilian position in the government, (7) must not have been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude, (8) must be at least one meter and sixty two centimeters or 5’4” in height for male and one meter and fifty seven centimeters or 5’2” for female, (9) must weigh not more or less five kilogram from the standard weight corresponding to his or her height, age and sex, and (10) must not be less than twenty-one nor more than thirty years of age.

An appointee must possess the appropriate eligibility acquired from any of the following examination: (a) Republic Act 1080 (Bar and Board exam), (b) PNP Entrance Examination, (c) Republic Act 6506 (Licensure Examination for Criminology Graduates), (d) Presidential Decree 907 (Granting Civil Service Eligibility to College Honor Graduates), and (e) Civil Service Commission (CSC) Second Level Eligibility (POI/Police Officer) and Career Service Professional.

Applicants are also required to submit the following documents: (a) Revised CSC Form 212, (b) Birth Certificate authenticated by National Statistics Office, (c) Eligibility (authenticated by Professional Regulatory Commission, (d) two pieces of 2x2 black and white picture indicating applicant’s name, (e) Transcript of Scholastic Records and Diploma (duly authenticated by the school registrar), (f) Clearances from the barangay, local police station, Regional Trial Court, Municipal Trial Court or Municipal Circuit Trial Court, and the National Bureau of Investigation, (g) Medical Certificate from any government doctor.

An endorsement from the city and municipal mayors and chairpersons of the Peace and Order Council in areas where they live must also be secured.

Submission of folders is still ongoing at the Regional Personnel Human Resource and Development Division (RPHRDD) of Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7), in Cebu City until December 31, 2011.

Region 6 cops on full alert this holiday season

Police Regional Office 6 is bracing for another heightened alert in preparation for the coming Yuletide Season.

Police Regional Director Cipriano E Querol Jr said robbery and theft incidents are expected to rise especially in the city of Iloilo and areas like shopping malls, churches and public places as Christmas approaches.

"The Christmas season is one of our top-most concerns when it comes to beefing up security as we expect crime rate to increase due to the influx of people coming home for vacation or spending the occasion with their families in the provinces”, Querol added.

In Iloilo City alone, Querol said about 500 police personnel have been deployed to perform regular police functions such as anti-criminality operations, beat patrol and general law enforcement and to provide 24-hour police visibility and other public safety services.

Of which 150 personnel of the 6 th Regional Public Safety Battalion and members of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) was also deployed to augment and help prevent criminals and terrorists from taking advantage of the situation

"Police visibility is very important particularly in crime-prone areas," Querol said, adding "beat patrol" in the city of Iloilo have been initiated since November 1, 2011.

“Members of the Brgy. Peacekeeping Action Team (BPATs), other Force Multipliers and volunteer groups will also be mobilized to augment the police force for intelligence monitoring, crime prevention and control, assist in traffic direction and will also be utilized for rescue operations especially during road mishaps,” Querol added.

Meanwhile, Iloilo City Police Director PSSupt Marietto M Valerio Sr., during an interview over TV channel cable program “Talakayan sa Isyubng Pulis” reiterated his call to the public to be more vigilant and alert against the threat of lawlessness.

Valerio also made an appeal to the public to observe safety tips shared that will guide them when they go to crowded places such as the shopping malls, churches, wet markets and bus terminals.

On the other hand, Querol emphasized that peace and order and security is everybody's vital role and that the police can't do this alone without the support of the community. “Let us also be careful in handling firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices and in purchasing these items and let us not forget to patronize locally made products to help the economic development of the region,” he added.

Cops blow whistles to end Violence Against Women

Members of Police Regional Office 6 have simultaneously blow their whistles to culminate the 18-day campaign to end Violence Against Women during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony today at the parade grounds of Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

This is in support to the worldwide campaign of the UN Secretary General dubbed as “UNITE to End Violence Against Women.”

The Blow the Whistle on Violence Against Women (VAW) campaign is a national advocacy led by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children to call on everyone to do their share in stopping VAW.

Aside from the simultaneous blowing of whistles, part of this worldwide campaign is the signing of the “UNITE pledge cloth” where police officers and non-uniformed personnel of PRO6 have written their personal statements that answer the question, “What are YOU doing to stop violence against women and girls?”

The Philippine National Police has also its own group within the organization who advocates to end VAW in the PNP and also in the community by preventing VAW and speaking out against VAW in their respective area of responsibility. The group is called PNP MOVE (Men Opposed to Violence against women Everywhere), which was organized by the Directorate for Police Community Relations for this purpose.

This year’s PNP MOVE Summit was held in Cebu City, on August 30-31, where PNP male officers from all over the country were encouraged to take active participation in the campaign to end VAW everywhere.

PRO6 confers Posthumous Award to PO1 Catiponan

The Police Regional Office 6 has posthumously awarded Medalya ng Kadakilaan (PNP Heroism Medal) to Police Officer 1 Angelo N Catiponan in a simple awarding ceremony during his wake at the Iloilo City Police Office Conference Hall this morning.

Medalya ng Kadakilaan (PNP Heroism Medal) is given to the members of the Philippine National Police who displayed heroic acts of conspicuous courage and commitment to the police service even at the expense of one’s own life.

Catiponan was reportedly killed while serving arrest warrant all by himself to the suspect of frustrated homicide, Jeffrey Cason at the suspect’s home in Brgy. Buntatala, Jaro, Iloilo City in the afternoon of November 28, 2011. .

Although Catiponan was found to have violated the PNP protocol in serving arrest warrants for not observing the “buddy system” or the “one-team system”, still PRO6 believes that the late PO1 Catiponan deserves the award for his heroic display of courage and commitment to the police service even at the expense of his own life, which had earned honors and credit not only for himself but also for the entire police organization.

During the ceremony, Police Senior Superintendent Wesley A Barayuga, Chief of the Regional Directorial Staff and Police Senior Superintendent Celestino B Guara, Jr., Officer-in-Charge of the Regional Personnel and Human Resource Development Division both of Police Regional Office 6 had conferred the award to PO1 Catiponan and it was received by his brother, Gary N. Catiponan. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick E Mabilog also attended the said ceremony and conveyed his heartfelt condolence to the families and friends of the late police officer.

Catiponan’s interment is scheduled on December 18, 2011 at Lambunao Municipal Cemetery.

Drilon urges DOJ to fast track disposition of case on oil pilferage

Ilonggo Senator Franklin M Drilon in his letter to DOJ Secretary, Hon. Leila de Lima urges the efficient and speedy resolution of the case against the apprehended nine (9) suspects who were caught while in the act of pilfering crude oil from the tanker of chartered M/V Cement Carrier owned by the CEMEX Philippines.

It must be recalled that members of the Special Operations Group of the Iloilo City Police Office led by Police Senior Superintendent Marietto M Valerio Sr and PSupt Noel B Lamis had arrested individuals who were suspects of siphoning oil from a tanker last November 3, 2011.

Likewise, Drilon lauded the operating team of Iloilo City Police Office for a job well done and the police officer who rejected the bribe money in the amount of Php100,000.00 offered by the suspects in exchange of their freedom.

Earlier, the Office of the Regional Public Information Officer of Police Regional Office 6 based in Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Iloilo City also received a letter from CEMEX Philippines President Pedro Palomino expressing deep and sincere gratitude to Police Regional Office 6 specifically to Iloilo City Police Office- Special Operations Group for their meritorious display of absolute professionalism and sheer honesty worthy of emulation by their colleagues in the PNP service.

Meanwhile, region’s top cop PCSupt Cipriano E Querol Jr assured the management of CEMEX Philippines of a continuous monitoring and police patrol in the waters of Iloilo City to minimize recurrence of such illegal activity.

On Monday, December 5, 2011, the apprehending officers will be duly recognized along with other deserving PRO6 personnel in a simple awarding ceremony during the Flag Raising Ceremony to be held at the parade grounds of Camp Martin Teofilo B Delgado, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

Querol: PNP will never protect any illegal-gambling operation in WV

The Police Regional Office 6 had strongly reiterated the region’s top cop directive issued on April 27, 2011, which include guidelines to the Provincial Director and City Director of Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO) and Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) respectively, for a concerted effort involving the LGUs, the media, and the church to put an end to all illegal-gambling activities particularly Jai-Alai operations in the areas of Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.

The directive also stressed that police operations will not only be directed to arrest collectors and bettors but also the financiers and protectors.

PRO-6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., said that the said directive was also in support to the One-Strike Policy of the Chief, PNP Police Director General Nicanor A Bartolome against all police chiefs who would fail to act against all forms of criminalities to include illegal gambling, illegal drugs and heinous street crimes, in their respective areas of responsibilities will be immediately relieved from post or dismissed from the service if proven guilty.

To help in carrying out the aforesaid objectives, Police Regional Office 6 has sent two (2) teams from the Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) also in order to complement the lack of personnel of NOPPO and BCPO.

Based on police records, Bacolod City tops the list on the number of cases filed in court for violation of RA 9287 (Illegal Numbers Games) with a total of 125 out of 159 police operations/raids conducted followed by Negros Occidental, with 58 out of 77 for the period of May-October 2011.

For the same period, there were already 501 individuals arrested with Php 136,751.50 worth of bet money confiscated. Of the 501 individuals arrested, 120 were reportedly collectors and bettors of “Target” and “Speed” Jai-Alai.

The report shows that the RSOG, Bacolod and Negros police are doing well in their jobs on the anti-illegal gambling operations.

However, Querol was disappointed with the news report featured in a local newspaper early of this month accusing cops particularly the members of the RSOG and some personnel of BCPO, which were allegedly used by Jai-Alai bigwig to harass small-time jai-alai operators through a series of raids and arrests for some monetary consideration.

“Contrary to the news report, I am positive that my men has been conducting a no let-up operations against all forms of illegal gambling including jai-alai operations, which are directed to everyone without discrimination or consideration to any particular group”, said Querol. .

“There is no truth that “Target” Jai-Alai and other illegal gambling outfits of Mr. Noli Yap are spared from police operations, also, the issue on protecting Mr. Yap has no factual basis and it is only being recycled and has not been proven ”, he added.

Likewise, he stressed that under his leadership; no PNP personnel shall be allowed or tolerated to protect any illegal gambling operation in Western Visayas.

Moreover, the region’s top cop surmised that the issue is only a brainchild of other illegal gambling groups who wanted to malign the reputation of the police and also to discredit the organization of its capability to end Jai-Alai operations, which have been in existence to Negros Occidental and Bacolod City for a very long time.

PRO6 trains WCPD investigators

The Police Regional Office 6 opened this morning a 10-day training on Specialized Course for WCPD (Women and Children Protection Desk) personnel at Camp Martin Teofilo B. Delgado, Iloilo City.

A total of 45 WCPD personnel will participate in the training and they come from the different police stations and units in Western Visayas.

PRO-6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., said the course aims to address the problems on competency of our personnel in handling cases against women and their children as well as to elevate the investigative standards of our personnel .

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Querol also said that training is expected to help the designated WCPD personnel to become fully-equipped investigators who can render effective and efficient service towards the community especially to the women and children sector of our society .

At present, Police Regional Office 6 has a total of 239 WCPD personnel, of which most have not undergone formal investigation course/training.

“We see the need to train our WCPD personnel because most of them do not have any formal training on the investigation of crimes involving women and children. While some of them have attended trainings/seminars on women and children concerns that run from 1 to 3 days only but no foundation course has actually been offered to WCPD Officers”, Querol added.

He also said that in line with one of the Chief, PNP Police Director General Nicanor A Bartolome 10-Point Action Plan, which is the enhancement and specialization of skills; the PNP, as the premier law enforcement agency of the country, shall institutionalize and standardize all investigation trainings nationwide in order to increase the quantity and quality of field investigators who possess the knowledge, skills, and the proper work attitude to work on a case until it is resolved by the court with finality.

Likewise, he stressed to the participants the importance of enhancing their investigative skills.

“If our investigation fails, we will not only compromise the integrity of our organization but also severe our partnership with the community”, he said adding that that investigation must be impartial and serve only the best interest of justice.

The Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division of PRO6 is facilitating the training.

Kalibo police arrest PO1 Lamis’s alleged gunman (November 15, 2011)

            Members of Kalibo Municipal Police Station led by Police Superintendent Aden T Lagradante were able to arrest the No.1 Most Wanted Person in Iloilo City and suspect in a series of crime incidents in Iloilo, Capiz, and Aklan.

            Suspect is identified as Rene Boy Esnaldo, 36 years old, and a resident of Brgy. Taal, Molo, Iloilo City, who is also the suspect in the killing of the former Police Regional Office 6 Intel Operative, PO1 Joemarie Lamis, who was shot dead on November 2, 2010 at Muelley-Loney St., Iloilo City.

            After a year of hiding from the authorities, the suspect was successfully apprehended in the late afternoon of November 14, 2011 at Villa Atong-Atang Hotel, M. Laserna St. , Kalibo, Aklan subsequent to the request of Atty Allen Quimpo for police assistance for a crime of rape reported to him by the victim that transpired at the said place.

            During the arrest, recovered from the suspect’s possession and control were the following:

            1.         one (1) homemade shotgun locally known as “sumpak”;

            2.         two (2) 12-gauge cartridge cases;

            3.         three (3) .45 cal cartridge cases;

            4.         one (1) transparent plastic and fourteen (14) aluminum foil sachets containing suspected traces of white crystalline substance known as “shabu”;

            5.         three (3) disposable lighter;

            6.         one (1) Nokia cell phone N70 (color white); and

            7.         one (1) unit motorcycle Fury 125 (color gray).   

            Furthermore, Esnaldo was also arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest for the crime of Murder with the Use of Unlicensed Firearm under Article 248, Para 1 of the Revised Penal Code as amended by RA 7659 (An Act to Impose the Death Penalty on Certain Heinous Crimes, Amending for that Purpose the Revised Penal Laws, As Amended, Other Special Penal Laws, and for Other Purposes) in Criminal Case # 11-69762 issued and signed by Hon. Danilo P Galvez, Presiding Judge, Regional Trial Court 6, Hall of Justice, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City dated April 4, 2011 with no bail bond recommended.

            Suspect is now under the custody of Kalibo MPS for proper disposition pending the filing of a case of Rape in court.                     

PROs 6, 7 & 8 lateral entrants take oath today (November 4, 2011)

A total of 47 Visayas-based candidates for Police Inspectors take their oath of office today 9 a.m. via PNP Lateral Entry Program CY 2011 during the Oath-taking Ceremony and Conferment of Ranks at the PRO 6 Multi-Purpose Hall.

Of the 47 lateral entrants, 13 of them came from PRO 6, 14 from PRO 7 and 20 from PRO 8. Out of 47 lateral entrants, only 6 are females and the rest are males.

The oath-taking of newly appointed Police Inspectors was officiated by Police Chief Superintendent Jose Erwin T Villacorte, CEO VI, Executive-Officer of the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management in Camp Crame who also served as the Keynote Speaker of the said ceremony.

This batch of Visayas-based lateral entrants will undergo 5 to 6 months training in Public Safety Officers’ Candidate Course with an extended Public Safety Officers’ Basic Course at the Regional Training School 6 in Bakyas, Mansilingan, Bacolod City.

They will also undergo a Field Training Program at the different police units back to their respective Police Regional Offices before they will be assigned to their final duty assignments.

This year’s batch of lateral entrants is composed of criminologists who will later join the Line Officers of the Philippine National Police.

Querol deploys more cops and force multipliers in Iloilo City (October 31, 2011)

Office personnel of Police Regional Office 6 Headquarters, Iloilo City Police Office Headquarters and members of Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) were officially deployed to their respective areas of responsibilities in the different areas of Iloilo City to beef up the city’s police force for the celebration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Days.

A total of 157 PNP office personnel, 117 from the PRO6 Headquarters and 40 from the ICPO Headquarters were deployed in the streets of Iloilo City Proper and the districts of Jaro and Lapaz.

The send-off ceremony was officiated by no less than the PRO6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr. and Iloilo City Vice Mayor Joe “III” Espinosa during the Iloilo City Government Monday flag raising ceremony today at Robinson’s Place, Mabini Wing, Iloilo City.

During the ceremony, both RD Querol and Vice Mayor Espinosa were given opportunities to speak before the men and women of PRO6.

. “I am very thankful to the City Government of Iloilo for all the support they extended to us, in all our endeavors in law enforcement and peacekeeping especially in sustaining the operations of BPATs in the entire city of Iloilo,” said Querol.

“The implementation of Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS) in Iloilo City became successful because of all the logistical support the City Government had extended to us; just like the motorcycles in Iloilo City Police Office for the Motorized Anti-Street Crime Operatives (MASCO), which are used to neutralize illegal activities of street-criminals,” he added.

Likewise, Vice Mayor Espinosa expressed his gratitude in behalf of the City Government of Iloilo and City Mayor Jed Patrick E Mabilog to Police Regional Office 6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr for all the PNP programs and projects the region’s top cop initiated and implemented not only in the city of Iloilo but also in the whole of Western Visayas.

Also present during the ceremony were Police Senior Superintendent Manuel B Felix, Deputy Regional Director for Operations; the Regional Directorial Staffs; Pastor Ariel A Jardinel who led the invocation and Police Superintendent Joel B Barallas, Regional Chaplain who led the send-off blessing.

RSOG’s anti-illegal gambling operations in Negros now at 46 (October 21, 2011)

The Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) of Police Regional Office 6 has filed a total of 46 cases on R.A. 9287 (Illegal Numbers Games) since January of this year up to present in the city of Bacolod and province of Negros Occidental alone.

Upon his assumption of office, Police Regional Office 6 Director, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., has ordered RSOG and all unit commanders to crack down illegal numbers game in the region.

Meanwhile, Querol reiterated to all Chiefs of Police the directive of the Chief, PNP Police Director General Nicanor A Bartolome regarding the One-Strike Policy against police chiefs who would fail to act against all forms of criminalities, to include illegal gambling, illegal drugs and street crimes, in their respective areas of responsibilities will be immediately relieved from post or dismissed from the service.

The pronouncement made by the Chief, PNP is an indication that the PNP organization will be giving no chance for the illegal activities of its members. Anyone who will be found violating this order shall be given due punishment.

“In adherence to the directive of our Chief, PNP with regard to One-Strike Policy, I will not hesitate to issue order of relief or worst dismissal from the service if the police chiefs under my leadership were proven to have collaborated with the drug lords and jueteng lords or even just failed to take actions on the occurrence of crimes in their areas of responsibilities especially on illegal drugs and illegal gambling operations,” said Querol.

“At present, I am satisfied and pleased of the performance of our police in terms of their campaign against illegal gambling in the region especially in the areas of Bacolod and Negros Occidental,” he added.

Querol recognized the efforts of the members of the Regional Special Operations Group, Bacolod City Police Office and Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office for their numerous accomplishments on their campaign against illegal gambling in the areas of Bacolod and Negros Occidental.

PRO6 now ready for All Saints’ Day (October 20, 2011)

Police Regional Office 6 is all set for the influx of people from all walks of life in all churches and cemeteries as the country observes All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on November 1 and 2, respectively.

In anticipation and in preparation to the various threat groups, to include terrorists and criminal elements/gangs who are taking advantage of the situation to carry out nefarious and illegal activities, RD Querol already directed all unit commanders to review and update their security and traffic plans based on the last year’s experience and the prevailing situation.

PNP personnel will be deployed in all areas of convergence to provide 24-hour police visibility and other public safety services.

The region’s police force will be on Full Alert Status during the said days.

Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol, Jr., PRO6 director said that personnel of the 6 th Regional Public Safety Battalion and members of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) will also be deployed to help prevent criminals and terrorists from taking advantage of the situation.

“Members of the Brgy. Peacekeeping Action Team (BPATs), other Force Multipliers and volunteer groups will also be mobilized to augment the police force for intelligence monitoring, crime prevention and control, assist in traffic direction and will also be utilized for rescue operations especially during road mishaps,” Querol added.

Pursuant to Oplan 35-2011 “Kaluluwa”, local police in coordination with the local government units and non-government organizations are required to establish Police Assistance Centers along the highways, near the cemeteries and transport terminals where motorists and the public can seek assistance in case of emergency.

Police patrol vehicles will be roving along commercial centers, bus terminals, seaports, cemeteries, churches and major thoroughfares.

Querol also reminds the public to support the anti-criminality campaign of the PNP by becoming cautious of their safety and security during this holiday.

“If possible, do not to bring large amount of cash and other valuables when visiting cemeteries or churches, likewise, never leave your houses and property unattended” he stressed.

In addition, bringing of intoxicating liquor, bladed instruments/weapons and gambling materials inside the cemeteries will be strictly prohibited.

PRO6 braces up for Tropical Storm “Ramon” (October 11, 2011)

Police Regional Office 6 Director , Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr. called for a coordinating conference in the morning of October 11, 2011 at PRO6 Conference Room to all PNP concerned units to prepare all PNP members with regard to disaster preparedness, search and rescue plans in the coming of tropical storm “Ramon”.

Tropical storm “Ramon” is expected to hit Western Visayas in the morning of Thursday, October 13, 2011.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Weather Specialist Meyma M. Casilagan, tropical storm “Ramon” has only maximum sustained winds of 55kph near the center with a radius of 150km. It is forecast to move West Northwest at 17kph.

“Ramon is not as strong as the previous typhoons, however, it is accompanied by a heavy rainfall which may trigger flashfloods and landslides in the region,” she added.

Possible affected areas in Western Visayas to be hit directly by tropical strom “Ramon” are northern part of Iloilo and Negros and whole provinces of Capiz and Aklan.

Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr. said that he wanted to see SAR-trained PNP members to be deployed in advance in the PNP identified flood-prone areas for the search and rescue operations.

“I have already directed our logistics officer to prepare the search and rescue equipments of PRO6 and our admin officer for the issuance of orders to compose the PNP Rapid Deployment Battalion for possible deployment if the need arises,” he added.

Effective 5pm of October 11, 2011, he also ordered to upgrade the alert status from heightened alert to full alert to all PNP units in Western Visayas.

Also present during the conference were Mr. Nilcardo B Fernando, Weather Specialist I-PAGASA; Mr. Ryan Vilmor J Dumpit, Science Research Assistant-DOST VI; Engr. Joseph Paul Nogra, Civil Defense Officer-OCD VI; and Maj. Julius C Paclibar, Operations Officer-301 st Inf Bde PA.

Gunrunners nabbed in a buy-bust (October 5, 2011)

The joint elements of the Regional Special Operations Group/Regional Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group (RSOG/RAIDSOTG) led by PINSP MARK LOUIE M SIGUA and Cadiz City Police Station led by PINSP GIL JOHN L DESPI conducted joint entrapment operation (Buy-Bust) under the direct supervision of PSUPT ROBERT T RODRIGUEZ, Chief, RSOG that resulted to the arrest of the three (3) suspect gunrunners at around 5:30 in the afternoon of October 5, 2011 at Villena Street, Barangay Zone 6, Cadiz City Negros Occidental.

Police Inspector Mark Louie M Sigua, team leader of the operation said, that for almost two months, the team have closely monitored and studied the reported gunrunning activity in Concepcion, Iloilo and Cadiz City, in the province of Negros Occidental after two confidential informants made a link with one of the arrested suspects.

“Some of these loose firearms confiscated in Cadiz City originally came from Concepcion, Iloilo but were transferred to Cadiz City just to evade the possible police operations in the Fifth District of Iloilo due to the standing gun ban order in July to August 2011,” Sigua added.

Suspects were identified as Barangay Kagawad HELEN DELA CRUZ Y ARO, 50, widow, of Prk Kakahuyan, Barangay Daga, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental; Barangay Kagawad MAXIMO RUFINO Y FERRER, 56, married,; and HERNANI FERRER Y BOMBOS, 40, married, both of Island Salvacion, Concepcion, Iloilo.

The suspects were caught on the act of actual selling to the police officer who acted as poseur buyer during the operation, the assorted unlicensed firearms in exchange of Two Hundred Ninety Seven Thousand Pesos (Php297,000.00) with a boodle money of two (2) one thousand peso bill bearing Serial Numbers GM522572 and GA639105, respectively, used as marked money.

Recovered from their possession and control are the following pieces of evidence:

The suspects were brought to Cadiz City Police Station for blotter entry and temporary custody pending the filing of case for violation of Presidential Decree 1866 as amended by Republic Act No. 8294 (Illegal Possession of Firearms, Ammunitions and Explosives).

Police/Force multiplier arrests hold-up gang (Sept 29, 2011)

            The Special Operations Task Group of Bacolod City Police Office led by Police Superintendent Santiago Rapiz, BCPO Deputy City Director for Operations together with members of the Regional Intelligence Unit 6 and the Crime Monitoring Action Group (CMAG) headed by its President Nora Mesias apprehended alyas “BOY” a minor; MICHAEL TYANGCO y BREA, 19, single and WILLIAM SALUSADA y ACOT, single, 22, both of Purok Katilingban in Barangay 39 in this city.

            Rapiz said that they spotted alyas “BOY” at the vicinity of Provincial Capitol Lagoon an alleged escapee from the City Social Development Center on May this year who was detained in the said center for killing a resident of Barangay 16 this city on January 2011.

            The said suspects were riding in trio in a Red Honda XRM 125 Motorcycle when the police operatives approached them; however they immediately fled to evade arrest.

The Police chased them and were caught inside the area of BREDCO Port, reclamation area in this city at around 9:00 in the evening on September 28, 2011.

“They met an accident because they were not able to notice a lamp post on the road because the area was too dark”, added Rapiz.  

             The police operatives were able to recover from “BOY” - One (1) Llama .380 Pistol with One (1) magazine and containing Seven (7) Live Ammunitions; From WILLIAM SALUSADA - One (1) Folded knife and From MICHAEL TYANGCO - One (1) Kitchen knife.  

             During the conduct of initial investigation alyas “BOY” voluntarily admitted that the XRM 125 Motorcycle, Color Red with motor number XRM16E 099668 with Chassis number XRM16095666 was carnapped by him from Barangay Alicante in the Municipality of E.B Magalona, Province of Negros Occidental.

            Rapiz said that they are involved in a spate of hold-ups in Bacolod victimizing call center agents.

            The three suspects are now detained at the lock-up cell of Police Station 2 and   will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 8294 (Illegal Possession of Firearms) and City Ordinance 358 (Illegal Possession of Deadly Weapons).

PSMBFI Training Center soon to rise (Sept 22, 2011)

A Training Center donated to Police Regional Office 6 will soon rise to address transient facility needs of PNP personnel from provincial and city police offices for in-service trainings, seminars or studies.

Western Visayas top cop Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr said that this P10.395 million project of the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund, Incorporated (PSMBFI) will be utilized as a training center that could cater to up to fifty participants.

Meant to improve the skills, intellectual capability and to boost the morale and welfare of every PNP personnel,

it will also serve as a transient facility for its members who are transacting business at the Regional Office, apparently with a cheaper charge as compared to other accommodations in Iloilo City, Querol added.

The establishment of a PSMBFI Regional Training Center is in pursuant to the thrust of the Board of Trustees of the Public Safety Mutual benefit Fund Inc. to promote the optimum development of every police officer in Region 6.

Police Director Rodolfo A Tor (Ret), Vice President of PSMBFI led the Groundbreaking Ceremony on the site inside Camp Martin T. Delgado, Iloilo City. He added that said facility will also accept couples for an overnight stay as transient occupants.

Application for PO1 at PRO6 still ongoing

Police Regional Office 6 is still accepting application folders for the rank of Police Officer 1 at the Regional Personnel and Human Resource Development Division both for Regular and Attrition Quotas for the 2 nd Semester CY 2011 PNP Recruitment Program.

Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr., PRO6 Director said despite the series of recruitment recently, Western Visayas still lacks police personnel to man the police stations and public safety companies.

Under the Regular Recruitment Program, 290 slots are allocated to meet the police-population ratio requirement in all police stations.

Another 260 slots are available for the Attrition Recruitment Program to replenish the vacancies due to death, retirement, resignation and dismissal of some police personnel.

A total of 550 slots for the rank of Police Officer 1 is the allotted quota for Police Regional Office 6 in this year’s 2 nd Semester PNP Recruitment Program, which is really needed to augment the region’s police force.

The conduct of actual recruitment and selection process starting with the Psychiatric/Psychological Examination (PPE) will be on September 26-30, 2011 to comply the target date of oath taking on November 1 and December 1, 2011 for the Regular and Attrition Recruitment Programs respectively.

PNPA announces Cadet Admission Test

The Philippine National Police Academy sets the deadline for submission of Application Form this September 30 for its annual Cadet Admission Test on October 30, 2011.

The PNPA is a premier institution which provides a preparatory education and training for the commissioned officers of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

The PNPA Cadetship Program is a four-year residential scholarship leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science in Public Safety (BSPS) and graduates are appointed as Police, Fire or Jail Inspectors.

PNPA cadets are recipient of full college scholarship from the government . While undergoing the 4-year cadetship program, cadets receive monthly pay and allowances to meet education and training requirements such as uniforms, subsistence, books, school equipment and supplies, toiletries, laundry, haircut, etc.

PNPA needs able, responsible and well-motivated youths who have the aptitude for service to meet the varied and challenging duties of a public safety service officer.

To be admitted as PNPA cadet, one must be: A natural born Filipino citizen; of good moral character; male or female, single and with no parental and financial obligation to anybody; 17 to 21 years old at the time of admission; height of at least 162.5 cm (5ft 4in) for male, and 157.5cm (5ft 2in) for female; weight must not be more than or not less than five (5) kilograms of the standard weight corresponding to height, age, and sex; at least high school graduate; must be able to perform the following physical fitness exercises: physically and mentally fit for cadetship training; no criminal, administrative, or civil case and other derogatory record(s); not a former cadet of PNPA or other service academies; and must pass the Cadet Admission Test (CAT).

Admitted cadets must complete the Cadetship Program and serve the government either in the PNP, BFP or BJMP services for the prescribed period (two years of service for every year of scholarship).

Admitted cadets shall pay back the expenses incurred for his/her scholarship should she/he fail to complete the Cadetship Program. Graduates shall reimburse the government of the expenses incurred during their Cadetship Program if they fail to complete the required years of service.

A case for Illegal Possession of Firearms in Estancia now filed in court (Sept 8, 2011)

A case for Violation of PD1866 as amended by RA 8294 (Illegal Possession of Firearms) was already filed against the suspect Oliver John Dela Peña y Roldan before Provincial Prosecutor Domingo L. Casiple, Jr. of the Iloilo Provincial Prosecutor’s Office docketed in NPS No. VI-11-11I-00423 dated September 6, 2011.

Dela Peña was arrested by the joint elements of the Regional Special Operations Group/Regional Anti Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group RSOG/RAIDSOTG led by Police Chief Inspector Julius N Jacinto and Estancia Municipal Police Station led by Police Chief Inspector Danilo P De los Santos, Chief of Police, in the afternoon of September 3, 2011 at Villa Morales, Poblacion Zone 1, Estancia, Iloilo.

Dela Peña, 36, married, and a resident of the aforesaid place was arrested by virtue of Search Warrant Number 11-10, duly issued by Hon. Judge Rogelio J. Amador of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 66, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo .

The said arrest resulted to the recovery and seizure of the following pieces of evidence:

a. One (1) caliber .45 pistol bearing S/N 280212 with attached red dot telescope with trade name: TASCO;

b. One (1) caliber .22 Magnum revolver (homemade);

c. One (1) caliber .22 Air Rifle with serial number 27912;

d. One (1) barrel of caliber .45 firearms;

e. Six (6) short steel magazines assembly of caliber 5.56 M16 Armalite rifle;

f. Six (6) long steel magazines of caliber 5.56 M16 Armalite rifle;

g. Two (2) extended magazines of caliber .45 firearm;

h. Fifty (50) live ammunitions of caliber 5.56 firearm;

i. Seventeen (17) live ammunitions of caliber .45 firearm;

j. Twenty Seven (27) live ammunitions of caliber 9MM firearm;

k. Fourteen (14) live ammunitions of caliber .22 long rifle; and

l. Three (3) live ammunitions of caliber .44 Magnum firearm.

This case is a good example of showing to the public that the PNP remains steadfast in its commitment to fully enforce the Philippine laws without fear or favor.

Thus, the PNP shall continue its effort to maintain all anti-criminality campaigns like the conduct of police operations and intelligence monitoring with regard to the maintenance of level of peace and order as well as public safety and internal security in the entire region of Western Visayas.

Probers eyeing anti-illegal drugs work as motive behind radioman’s killing (Sept 4, 2011)

Earlier, the Regional Director of Police Regional Office 6, Police Chief Superintendent Cipriano E Querol Jr., ordered the creation of the Special Investigation Task Group “Jimena” right after the death of mediaman, Niel “Lito” Jimena.

Jimena, was shot dead in the afternoon of August 22, 2011 a t the National Highway in Bangga Maravilla, Brgy. 3, E.B. Magalona in Negros Occidental by two unidentified suspects riding in tandem on a black motorcycle.  

The task of this special investigation task group is to fast-track the arrest of the suspects by focusing intensively on the in-depth investigation of the case.

Jimena, 42, married, a resident of two (2) places: Hacienda Teresa, Barangay Alicante, EB Magalona in Negros Occidental and Barangay San Isidro, Lapaz, Iloilo City was also a noted mediaman/blocktimer of a radio station in Iloilo City before his death.

Way back in 2009, the victim also survived a liquidation attempt by two (2) unidentified suspects at Victorias City in Negros Occidental who might be the same suspects which until now remained unidentified.

Jimena was allegedly an "asset" or drug informant/agent of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and of the Iloilo City Police Office Intelligence Section before.

And that angle of the crime was very significant to be considered and examined by the probers of the case.

Right now, the Philippine National Police is not discounting the possibility that the motive behind the assassination of Jimena is drug-related .

The police are now working more in considering all the alleged personalities involved in illegal drug trades and activities especially in Iloilo City which can probably lead to the identification of the suspects and the brains behind the criminal act committed.

The pieces of evidence recovered from the victim's cadaver like slugs as well as the two (2) empty shells of cal .45 pistol recovered from the crime scene were already submitted to the Negros Occidental PNP Crime Laboratory for ballistic examination.

Likewise, the cellular phone of the victim was already submitted by Police Chief Inspector Ray V Cuanico, Chief, Provincial Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for verification.

This is to give clarification on the reports of some local mediamen that the EB Magalona police had mishandled the evidence that was in stored in the cellular phone of the victim.

Moreover, the CCTV footage from a local gasoline station in EB Magalona is currently under careful review and study by the Provincial CIDG to determine the possible identification of the perpetrators by material evidence.

Assailant shot self (Sept 2, 2011)

A police officer is always on duty, twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. This statement was proven true by PO2 Rhol Grantos of Valderrama Municipal Police Station in the province of Antique while on his way home in the morning of September 1, 2011 after a day of rendering duty.

PO2 Grantos, while running on flat tire onboard his motorcycle, decided to stop by at the nearest vulcanizing shop at Brgy. Tigmamale, Valderrama, Antique.

Thereafter, a group of persons arrived at the shop together with Nicodemus Vitodio y Ansyong, who was under the influence of liquor, drew his .45 caliber pistol and pointed to the shop owner Gloria Puno.

Upon seeing the imminent danger of the circumstance, PO2 Grantos jumped in to impede Vitodio, grappling ensued between them which resulted to the squeezing of the trigger by the latter, consequently hitting him on his upper right chest.

Vitodio, 56, married, of Brgy. Canipayan, Valderrama, Antique, was then brought to Angel Salazar Memorial Hospital, in San Jose, Antique for medical treatment but due to minor injury sustained, he was immediately released from the said hospital.

17 BJMP inmates and 2 other suspects face murder case (Sept 1, 2011)

A case for MURDER WITH THE USE OF ILLEGALLY POSSESSED FIREARMS docketed in I.S. Nr VI-02-INQ-11H-00148 was filed before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, San Jose, Antique dated August 31, 2011 against nineteen (19) suspects; seventeen (17) BJMP inmates and two (2) other suspects: Joey Naldo @ Jimboy and certain John Doe.

These two (2) other suspects were the ones responsible in throwing the caliber .38 revolver and fragmentation hand grenade inside the compound of San Jose BJMP District Jail in the evening of August 25, 2011 prior to the shooting and hostage taking incidents.

The fourteen (14) BJMP inmates who were accused of the crime are still temporarily detained at Antique Rehabilitation Center (ARC) since August 27, 2011.

While the three (3) inmates/accused Lloyd Francisco, Christopher Fernando and Evelio Molina still remain detained in the lock-up cell of San Jose MPS.

On the other hand, accused Joey Naldo @ Jimboy, was a former San Jose BJMP District Jail inmate charged with Homicide and Attempted Homicide but all his cases were amicably settled.

He is the younger brother of Jerry Naldo y Samsona @ Basil, one of the inmates/accused in the death of JO2 Romar Saquibal y Desmonte and in the hostage taking incident that followed.