ILOILO – Just six days before the May 12 national and local elections, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has implemented a strategic reshuffling of key police officials across Iloilo province, in what authorities describe as a move to strengthen law enforcement neutrality and preparedness in politically sensitive areas.
Five police commissioned officers were reassigned effective May 6. While officials maintain the reshuffle is part of routine personnel movements, the timing aligns with heightened security preparations in the lead-up to election day.
Among those affected is Police Major Kenn Albert P. Lepsia, who was relieved from Dumangas Municipal Police Station (MPS) and transferred to the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) headquarters. Taking his place in Dumangas is Police Major Harold A. Rendora, who previously served at the IPPO headquarters.
In other movements, Police Captain Cedric B. Cruz was reassigned from Barotac Nuevo MPS to the IPPO, with Police Captain Johnny C. Oro, former deputy chief of Carles MPS, stepping in as Barotac Nuevo’s new chief.
Meanwhile, Police Lieutenant Patrick John D. Alabado, formerly of the 1st Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company, was appointed deputy chief of police in Carles.
PRO-6 spokesperson Police Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Solis said the reshuffle was done in coordination with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), in compliance with strict election-related personnel policies.
“All reassignment orders are cleared with Comelec. The
Philippine National Police (PNP) cannot arbitrarily move personnel during the election period,” said Solis, emphasizing that such adjustments are necessary to maintain impartiality and public trust in the police force.
While Solis could not disclose the exact reasons for the reassignments, he noted that PNP personnel are conditioned for mobility, especially during critical national events.
“This is part of the PNP system. Officers must always be ready for reassignment, particularly in times like elections when neutrality and rapid response are paramount,” he added./PN
