PNP implements reshuffle, says it’s part of anti-terror campaign

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Calderon announced yesterday the latest reshuffle in the police force to intensify the government’s campaign against terrorism.

The reshuffle will fill up the positions vacated by police officials who had reached the mandatory retirement age of 56, he added.

Calderon said the relief of Central Mindanao police director Chief Superintendent German Doria would take effect on Feb. 15.

Doria would be replaced by Chief Superintendent Felizardo Serapio Jr., Special Action Force commander, he added.

Doria was relieved after a series of bombings in his area and the escape of 49 inmates from the Cotabato provincial jail.

Calderon said Serapio would be replaced in an acting capacity by Chief Superintendent Leocadio Santiago, SAF deputy commander, in today’s turnover ceremonies at SAF headquarters in Taguig.

Senior Superintendent Roberto Damian, his senior executive assistant, will take over Santiago’s post as deputy SAF commander, he added.

Calderon said Chief Superintendent Joey Salvacion, Directorate for Logistics head, who retired a few days ago, will be replaced by Chief Superintendent Ernesto Belen.

Belen’s position as head of the Directorate for Research and Development will be taken over by Chief Superintendent Jeff Soriano, who used to be Cagayan Valley police commander, he added.

Calderon said Soriano’s post will be occupied by Chief Superintendent Ameto Tolentino, who will pass on the Logistics Support Service to Chief Superintendent Napoleon de los Santos.

"The assignment of Serapio to Region 12 would give momentum in the PNP’s fight against terrorists in Central Mindanao, he being the commander of SAF," he said.

"Serapio could be the right blend in out anti-terror campaign in the area."

Calderon said the PNP reshuffle was approved and cleared by the Commission on Elections. – Cecille Suerte Felipe