Police told: Inspire people with good deeds

CEBU, Philippines – A top official of the National Police Commission has encouraged law enforcers to emulate the performance of three police officials who became instrumental in the seizure of 53 gambling machines from across the province.

"I urge you to participate in the awarding so that we can, as an establishment, as an institution, send a message that we have bore (of) the good men rather than the scalawags," said Eduardo Escueta, vice chairman and executive officer of Napolcom.

He said the police also deserve to be recognized for their good performance.

Chief Inspectors Romeo Santander, head of the City Intelligence Branch; Ryan Devaras, chief of Mambaling Police Station; and Renero Agustin, chief of Carbon Police Station were awarded the Certificate of Merit as the top three performing police chiefs.

Escueta and Mayor Michael Rama led the destruction of the gambling machines seized from different barangays in Cebu City from September to October.

"Yan sana ang ating ma-develop along the way so that there will be inspiration in making good deeds to our people. So today, let this be a testimony of professionalism, excellence and dedication to the men and women of the police institution," Escueta said.

Escueta said Napolcom will continue to guide the PNP, as well as continue to recognize the good performance of policemen.

Yesterday morning, Escueta, assisted by city Mayor Mike Rama, led the ceremonial destruction of nearly 60 video karera machines confiscated by the different units of the Cebu City Police Office.

City Police Director Sr. Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe also called on the public to cooperate with the police and report individuals or operators of illegal gambling machines.

In his speech, Rama said the police can depend upon the city government when it comes to efforts against illegal gambling.

"We must be together and we are one to fight against what we believe are deterrents towards harmony, tranquility, and progress of the city," Rama said.

"We provide example that in Cebu City we mean business in promoting peace and order and we mean business to remove anyone who will become a stumbling block. I will remove anyone who is not in this direction," the mayor added. (FREEMAN)