MANILA- The Philippine National Police’s new Chief, Police General Benjamin C Acorda, Jr., was honored at the Pammadayaw event in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, on May 15, 2023. The League of Municipalities of the Philippines organized the event to recognize and celebrate PGen Acorda’s appointment as the 29th Chief of the PNP.
In his speech, PGen Acorda expressed his gratitude to the Local Government of Bacarra led by Hon, Nicomedes Dela Cruz Jr., and the people who have supported him throughout his career. He also acknowledged the hard work and dedication of every member of the PNP, the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office personnel, LGUs, NGOs, and other individuals who have contributed to the safety and security of communities.
“Today’s event is not just about me. More importantly, it is about the entire PNP and our dedication to serving the community. Thus, I want to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice of every member of the police force. We have been entrusted with the immense responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of our people, and we take this duty with utmost seriousness. Despite the challenges that we face every day, our men and women in uniform remain steadfast in their commitment to serve and protect”, PGen Acorda said.
The PNP Chief emphasized the importance of community partnership and intelligence gathering in ensuring effective law enforcement operations. He highlighted the PNP’s Five-Focused Agenda towards aggressive and honest law enforcement operations, boosting personnel morale and welfare, integrity enhancement, strengthening capabilities in information and communication technology, and expanding engagement and interaction with citizens.
He called on the League of Municipalities of the Philippines to join the PNP in implementing these crucial programs, stating that their efforts are essential to achieving the goal of a safer and more secure Philippines.
“I believe that by focusing on these priorities, we can build a stronger, more effective, and more responsive Philippine National Police. But we cannot do this alone. We need the support and cooperation of our partners in local government, civil society, and the private sector. And that is why I am calling on the League of Municipalities of the Philippines to join us in our commitment to implementing these programs”, PGen Acorda said.
PGen Acorda concluded his speech with a call for “Serbisyong Nagkakaisa” – a public service that is united in its commitment to provide equal access to justice and protection to all, regardless of social status or economic standing. He expressed his commitment to leading the PNP with honor, integrity, and dedication, and to working towards a safer, more prosperous, and more united Philippines.
The Pammadayaw event in Bacarra was a significant milestone for PGen Acorda and the Philippine National Police. As the country continues to face challenges in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens, PGen Acorda’s call for “Serbisyong Nagkakaisa” serves as a reminder that the PNP needs the support and cooperation of all stakeholders in society to achieve a safer and more secure country.
The event was attended by esteemed guests, members of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines, and the people of Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, where PGen Acorda was born.