Talisay's new police chief assumes post

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) Director Senior Superintendent Edgar Alan Okubo challenged newly assumed Talisay City police chief Superintendent Marlu Conag to lower the crime rate in the city.

Okubo said of all police stations in the province, only the Talisay City Police Station has recorded an increasing rate.

Conag is a graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy. He was formerly assigned at Tuburan Police Station.

Outgoing Police Supt Jason Villamater, who has been chief of Talisay police for more than four months, has been reassigned to Tuburan Police Station.

Conag, in his message during the ceremonial turnover of command early morning yesterday, relayed that he was part of the Special Action Forces for 13 years.

His first assignment as police chief is in Tuburan.

Conag thanked Okubo for giving him a chance to lead a police station in a city.

He also told reporters that he will study the city’s situation to identify the appropriate approach and programs he needs to implement.

“It’s a big challenge, nag-research ako, during conference (with police chiefs) nakikita ko ang problem sa Talisay,” Conag said.

For his part, Villamater thanked Talisaynons for their cooperation during his leadership.

It was reported that during his stint as chief, Talisay police were able to neutralize Jessie Largo, one of the most wanted persons in Talisay.

Villamater said controversial crimes were solved under his watch.

Meanwhile, Okubo said that they will continue to conduct surprise inspections on police stations in the province.

This after half of Toledo City police personnel were placed under investigation for leaving the station and their areas of assignment last Sunday.

A few weeks ago, 12 personnel from Talisay City Police Station were relieved from their posts for allegedly going on vacation leave without permission.

“There’s a need na ituloy ang inspections. It is a form of warning to police stations. Alam na nila yan. They should comply police presence palagi and also comply sa binigay na duty,” Okubo said.

He also said that police should also be visible to the public in order to prevent any crimes, adding that they must prove to the public as well as to the Philippine National Police headquarters that they are deserving of their salary increase.

“Natutuwa ang mga civilian kapag may mga police. The mere presence of uniformed personnel, people will feel, have an assurance that they area is safe and secured,” he said. —JBB (FREEMAN)