Vice Mayor Bucao prefers police chief that can't be cowed

CEBU, Philippines - Talisay City Vice Mayor Alan Bucao said if he had his way, he would want a police chief who would enforce the laws without fear.

"Aside from looking at the qualification, I'd go for someone who would implement our laws no matter kinsay maligsan. But di man kita ang mopili, it's the mayor's prerogative," said Bucao.

Bucao, who is chairman on council committee on Peace and Order, said he still hopes the city would pick a police chief at par with the achievements of Supt. Henry Biñas.

During Biñas' term as Talisay City Police Station commander, from November 28, 2008 until February 20 this year, the station had arrested about 80 percent of suspects, which included Joavan Fernandez, son of Mayor Socrates Fernandez.

Bucao said he already has someone in mind from the five names sent by the Cebu Provincial Police Office, but he would prefer to remain silent on the identity so as not to pre-empt Fernandez's decision.

Based on the recommendations of the Cebu Provincial Police Office, Fernandez will pick one from these five names: Supt. Eduardo Saavedra, Supt. Teofilo Siclot Jr., Supt. Elmer Lim, Supt. Julian Entoma, and Supt. Rodulfo Albotra.

And while Fernandez has not made a decision yet, Sr. Insp. Errol Francis Deveyra sits as acting police station chief.— (FREEMAN)