SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Provincial Government of La Union recognized its top police officers at the Top 10 Outstanding Police Officers of La Union (TOPLU) Awarding Ceremony on September 19 at the La Union Convention Center.
The TOPLU award highlights those who go the extra mile to ensure the safety and well-being of their communities.
The awardees demonstrated unique skills and commitment, from tackling illegal activities to fostering trust and collaboration with the public.
The recognition, established through Provincial Ordinance No. 025-2012 and later amended by Provincial Ordinance No. 119-2017, honors the dedication and commitment of these officers in maintaining peace and order, reflecting the bayanihan spirit in the province.
The award also aims to inspire police personnel to excel with honesty and integrity.
Ten police officers were recognized for their exemplary service and dedication across various fields and were awarded ₱10,000 cash incentives, along with a certificate and token.
The 2024 Ten Outstanding Police Officers of La Union are:
• PMaj. Gerardo Macaraeg, Jr. – Investigatory Category
• Police Lt. Col. Jake Isidro – Police Community Relations Category
• Police Maj. Antonio Dasalla, Jr. – Intelligence Category
• Police Lt. Col. Arnold Ongachen – Special Operations Category
• Police Capt. John Baniaga, Jr. – Criminalistic Category
• Police Staff Sgt. Ronnie Pascua – Traffic Management Category
• Police Capt. Edlyn Galinato – Human Resource Development Category
• Police Staff Sgt. Melanie Daclan – Anti-Narcotic Category
• Police Staff Sgt. Donn Howard Hipol – Health Service Category
• Police Lt. Col. Anthony Otinguey – Administrative Management Category
Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David, who graced the event as the guest of honor, emphasized the critical role of the police in local development.
“May your passion for service inspire more police personnel and youth who aspire to become police officers,” Gov. Ortega-David said to the awardees.
On the other hand, Police Brig. Gen. Lou Evangelista, director of Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1), called on his colleagues to maintain the integrity and honor that define the uniformed service.
“You understand the challenges, difficulties, and rewards of being a law enforcer. Your dedication to serve and protect highlights the truth that service is not defined by a single path but by a deep sense of calling and a commitment to excellence in your profession,” Evangelista stated.
The honorees were selected through a rigorous screening process, which included evaluating their accomplishments and a panel interview.
To qualify for the award, nominees must be appointed police officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP), with at least five years of service and a current assignment within the province.
In exceptional cases, policemen who have served less than five years may still be eligible if they have demonstrated extraordinary and outstanding achievements.
As he received his distinction, Police Lt. Col. Jake Isidro, unit chief of Provincial Community Affairs and Development Unit (PCADU) of La Union Police, vowed to build on his achievements in police-community relations, aiming to uphold peace and security.
“With this award, I pledge to remain unwavering in every police officer’s commitment to excellence and to uphold the highest standards of service. Together, we will continue making a difference in the lives of those we are sworn to serve,” Isidro said.
The said police officer oversees the implementation of the PNP Master Plan Tagataguyod, spearheading community policing, awareness campaigns, and anti-criminality efforts.
Under his leadership, PCADU enhanced the La Union police’s collaboration with Muslim communities, actively involving them in PCR activities such as outreach programs and Kapulisan, Simbahan, at Pamayanan (KASIMBAYANAN) initiatives. (AMB/MJTAB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
