New PNP Region 8 director vows to carry out internal cleansing

PALO, Leyte – The new regional chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Eastern Visayas has vowed to continue an internal cleansing program to rid its ranks of scalawags.

During the turnover ceremony on Wednesday, Brig. Gen. Rommel Bernardo Cabagnot said there will be new directives for the region’s 10,000 policemen to “do their job and do it properly.”

“We have (a) strong desire to go against scalawags and erring police officers. I don’t want a ‘kotong’ cop or any involvement in illegal drugs. There will be no mercy for those who will destroy the ranks and the organization. I will hunt you down,” Cabagnot said during the ceremony at the police regional headquarters here.

The official also urged police officers to step up their effort to address the challenges of criminality, illegal drugs, insurgency and terrorism, and the global pandemic.

“Just do your mandate with utmost dedication and commitment,” Cabagnot called on his men.

He said serving in the region is not new to him since he was assigned as Samar police provincial director from 2015 to 2016.

“I am happy to be back in service to the people of Eastern Visayas. The demand of service has become more intense, but I can assure you that I will be there,” he said.

Cabagnot, the former regional staff of the National Capital Regional police office, replaced Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, who retired after 34 years in service. De Jesus assumed the post in September 2020. (PNA)