PNP CHIEF VISIT. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., (with cloth garland) lauds the officers and men of the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula for promoting peace in the region. Azurin visited the PRO-9 headquarters Thursday (Feb. 23, 2023) to lead the awarding of medals to eight officers and 10 policemen for outstanding performance. (Photo courtesy of PRO-9)
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has commended the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9) for "efficiently and effectively promoting peace and order" in the region.
Azurin was here Thursday to lead the awarding of medals to eight officers and 10 policemen for their outstanding performance and devotion to duty.
Azurin also commended the PRO-9 officers and personnel for "ensuring the progress" of the PNP Peace and Security Framework, M+K+K=K (Malasakit, Kaayusan, Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran) and the Kasimbayanan (Kapulisan, Simbahan, Pamayanan) programs in the region.
“The M+K+K=K and Kasimbayanan have become the cornerstone of our commitment to serving the Filipinos and keeping our communities safe,” Azurin said.
He said the police's "sacred obligation" to serve the people of the Zamboanga Peninsula has made a significant impact on the eradication of illegal drugs, reduction of loose firearms and arrest of wanted persons and terrorists.
Brig. Gen. Neil Alinsañgan, PRO-9 director, said the intensified law enforcement operations and anti-criminality campaign in the region will continue.
On Wednesday, he said police operatives have arrested Alfie Montero, 42, an alleged big-time drug suspect, in an operation in Barangay Poblacion, Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.
On Feb. 17, policemen together with soldiers also arrested Omar Mabanza, 27, a suspected Abu Sayyaf bomber in Barangay Calabasa in this city.
Seized from Mabanza were an improvised explosive device and other bomb-making materials.
Meanwhile, Azurin reminded the PRO-9 officers and personnel to continuously support the PNP internal cleansing program to ensure the integrity of the organization.
Azurin also administered the oath-taking of Salaam volunteers and inducted the officers of the PRO-9 Life Coaches in Camp Colonel Romeo Abendan in Barangay Mercedes.
The Salaam volunteers are police force multipliers while the PRO-9 Life Coaches facilitate counseling for police officers. (PNA)
