New Lapu-Lapu police OIC ready to face challenges

CEBU, Philippines - Regional Intelligence Chief, Sr. Supt. Rey Lyndon Lawas is ready to assume as the new Officer-In-Charge of the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LLCPO).

This, after Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza publicly confirmed reports of outgoing LLCPO director Sr. Supt. Anthony Obenza relief on Wednesday.

Radaza was informed about Obenza’s relief by a high ranking official from the Police Regional Office – 7 about two weeks ago.

“I am honored to be one of those who have been chosen by mayor Radaza to act as OIC of Lapu-Lapu Police though there is no word yet from the Police Regional Office,” he told reporters after their regional intelligence conference yesterday at the Cebu City Police Office headquarters.

Lawas disclosed that he paid a visit to Radaza last week before word of Obenza’s relief came public.

In the meeting, Lawas said that Radaza expressed concerns on numerous peace and order problems in the city which should be addressed properly.

Lawas said management of police personnel and rising crime rates were among the top concerns that Radaza mentioned during his visit.

Last year, Radaza expressed dissatisfaction over Obenza’s performance after he allegedly failed to inform her about the presence of cyber pornography in several barangay in the city. As mayor, Radaza has the power to choose among five police officers endorsed by PRO-7 to be the new LLCPO director by authority of Republic Act 8551 or the Philippine National Police Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998.

Lawas said that his experience as regional intelligence chief can greatly help in effectively addressing criminal problems in the city.

When asked if he considers the transfer as a form of demotion, Lawas answered saying, “Di ni siya demotion but a challenge. Same ra ang atong trabaho, public service.” As the OIC of LLCPO, Lawas will maintain his post as regional intelligence chief while Radaza has yet to choose the new LLCPO director.

Obenza, who only served LLCPO for over two years, will be sent back to the regional office. Reports say Obenza’s relief will take effect next week.(FREEMAN)