LINGAYEN, Pangasinan (PIA) – The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) reminded police personnel in the province anew to consistently prioritize and protect the public interest when carrying out their duties.

Lawyer Philip Raymund Rivera, provincial officer of the NAPOLCOM in Pangasinan, said police officers should always remember that it is an honor to be a member of the police force, so it is appropriate that they serve honestly and with integrity.

“As police officers, we do not only work in the fulfillment of our profession. Instead, we fulfill our duty because it is our chosen vocation,” he said during the 30th Ethics Day celebration of the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPO) held Monday at Camp Gov. Antonio U. Sison here.

Rivera also reminded the Pangasinan police to never forget their mandate and remember that “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

“As public servants, [we] are beholden to always uphold and prioritize the public interest over our own personal interests,” he said.

In his message, Col. Jeff Fanged, Pangasinan PPO director, said “As law enforcers, we (police officers) are bound to exhibit a strong ethical foundation not because of the PNP Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Standards but because we are already naturally ethical beings through the learnings imbibed by our parents as we develop from infancy to adolescence.”

Meanwhile, three Pangasinan police officers were recognized during the event for their dedication to service.

These are Capt. Shayne Daciego, Staff Seargent Raymond Ballesteros, and Patrolman Renmark Ertero.

They were given certificates of commendation for their selfless acts of kindness and benevolent initiatives as they made meaningful impacts on the lives of less fortunate citizens by showing their unwavering commitment and fostering public trust in the community.

The Ethics Day celebration is anchored on the theme, “Serbisyong may Pagkakaisa, Integridad at Kasanayan tungo sa Mapayapa at Maunlad na Pamayanan.” (JCR/AMB/EMSA/EELG-intern/PIA-Pangasinan)