Rama picks RID head for CCPO

CEBU, Philippines – The head of the Regional Intelligence Division Senior, Supt. Melvin Ramon G. Buenafe, has been chosen by Mayor Michael Rama to head the Cebu City Police Office.

Rama has already sent his recommendation to Philippine National Police Director Jesus Verzosa and requested the latter to respond to his request with urgency.

Buenafe will be replacing incumbent CCPO director Patrocinio Comendador.

There were five nominees in Rama's list. He refused to mention the others, but said he chose Buenafe for various reasons.

"First, I did my own research and I think and I believe that he is the one I expect to develop trust and confidence. All the rest of the nominees are qualified but I have decided to choose this fellow," Rama said.

Rama said that Buenafe's performance as the head of Task Force Ting also helped him decide to choose him for the position.

He also received a lot of recommendations from groups and individuals.

Meanwhile, Buenafe said he is aware of the bigger challenges and more problems that await him in the CCPO.

He also said he is grateful Rama chose him.

"I'm happy that the mayor trusts me and that he believes in my capability to run the Cebu City Police Office considering na daghang atubangunon na problema diha. I am grateful na appreciated sad ta," Buenafe said.

Buenafe said he was only informed of the mayor's announcement yesterday afternoon through the media.

"I will work hard to be able to attain the expectations of the people and beyond that ang mas maayos na pagpapatakbo sa CCPO ug ang kaayuhan sa syudad," he said.

Buenafe said he will announce today in a press conference the programs he will be implementing and improving as soon as he assumes the post.

Before he was appointed as head of RID, Buenafe was director of the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office from December 2005 to June 2008.

He graduated from the Philippine Military Academy 1986 Sinagtala Class. 

The mayor also has plans to improve the CCPO compound along Gorordo Ave. to "give dignity" to the police force.

He said that the present situation of the police office does not pass his standards so he will find a way to get funding for its renovation which might include tapping private sectors. - Jessica Ann R. Pareja and Niña G. Sumacot/BRP (THE FREEMAN)