New CCPO chief to strengthen fight vs drugs

CEBU, Philippines - The newly appointed officer-in-charge of the Cebu City Police Office assured the city government he will further heighten the police’s drive against the perennial problem on illegal drugs.

Senior Superintendent Marciano Batiancela Jr. yesterday paid a courtesy call to Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella and committed to implement a “no-nonsense” approach against criminality particularly against illegal drugs.

 “That (crime) is one of the concerns that we have talked about. And then of course, the primary objective is the fight against illegal drugs; he made this commitment to me and of course to the city,” Labella said, revealing to reporters his conversation with Batiancela.

Labella is convinced that Batiancela, who is no longer new to the city, holds a good record as a police official.

The police official has been assigned as commander of Mabolo, Taboan, and Waterfront police stations.

“He has a good record, so far as his stint in the police stations in Cebu City. In so far as Batanciela is concerned, I have not known of any derogatory record against him,” Labella said.

Labella said he cannot endorse any names, though, to the mayor as it is the latter’s prerogative to decide who to recommend as the permanent CCPO director.

“My concern is for the police chief to be appointed permanently since we have programs and projects that need continuity. However, it’s still up to the mayor to decide,” he added. — (FREEMAN)