MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) to remain vigilant amid all challenges and opportunities as the country strives to a peaceful and safe “Bagong Pilipinas.”
“Let us remain vigilant in the face of challenges and opportunities, as we strive to build a Bagong Pilipinas where everyone can thrive and live in peace,” President Marcos said in his speech during the change of command ceremony and retirement honors for Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr.
Acorda ended his term as the PNP Chief on March 31, prompting President Marcos to designate Police Lt. General Emmanuel Baloloy Peralta as officer-in-charge of the national police force.
Police Major General Rommel Francisco Marbil, 55, was formally named as Acorda’s replacement.
In his speech, President Marcos acknowledged and congratulated Acorda for his efforts, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the Filipino people through his “Five-Focused Agenda.”
President Marcos said Acorda’s “Five-Focused Agenda” guided the PNP towards more honest law enforcement operations, enhanced information technology capabilities, and stronger community relations.
“The PNP’s efforts in combatting various forms of crime have yielded tangible results, which exhibit the diligence of our officers and personnel, as well as the effectiveness of our programs,” President Marcos said.
The President cited OCTA Research survey conducted last year, recognizing the PNP as 3rd Highest Performing and Most Trusted among 25 government agencies in the second quarter of 2023 with a 76 percent trust rating.
For the chief executive, the survey only “indicates the public’s increasing trust and confidence in the police force.”
“With all these, I believe, the best send-off gift that we can give General Acorda is neither the usual memorabilia nor the typical testimonials. The best parting token that we can offer him is the pledge to exceed what he has done during his watch and to continue the good work that he has begun,” President Marcos said.
“I am sure nothing will make General Benjie Acorda happier than seeing the organization he loves so much able to outdo all the previous achievements of the PNP. So, for all these and more, I congratulate and salute General Acorda for a job well done,” he added.
During the event, President Marcos welcomed and congratulated Marbil as he wished him full confidence and assured him of his full support to champion a police force that is pro-God, pro-country, pro-people, and pro-environment.
“Let us work closely with you in addressing emerging threats, such as cybercrime, terrorism, and transnational crimes. We shall continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and give the finest service to our beloved citizens,” he said.
“Let us now ensure that the PNP will be agents of progressive transformation in the lives of our people by ensuring the safety and well-being of every community in the land,” the chief executive added, addressing Marbil.
Before concluding his speech, President Marcos congratulated the more than 230,000 men and women of the PNP and their families for their unwavering dedication to public service and for being instrumental to the success of the police force and the development as a nation.
With the new PNP Chief, President Marcos enjoined everyone to face the coming days with even greater fervor, determination, and optimism to achieve the goals and aspirations for the “Bagong Pilipinas.” (PND)
