ILOILO City – The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has clinched the title of Best City Police Office in the country, while the Iloilo City Government was named Best Local Government Unit in support of the Philippine National Police (PNP), in a rare double victory during the PNP’s 124th Police Service Anniversary at Camp Crame, Quezon City, on Aug. 12.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., guest of honor and speaker at the event, personally handed the award to ICPO director Police Colonel Kim Legada, whose office bested finalists from Davao City and Butuan City.
The PNP cited ICPO’s strong performance in crime prevention, law enforcement, and community engagement, crediting initiatives such as targeted anti-crime operations, barangay-based patrols, and crime prevention seminars — all while tackling persistent urban challenges like theft, robbery, and illegal drugs.
In the local government unit (LGU) category for highly urbanized and independent cities, Iloilo City outshone Zamboanga City and Pasig City. Former mayor Jerry Treñas accepted the award, which recognized the city’s consistent funding for police equipment, mobility, and community policing programs.
Legada dedicated the ICPO’s win to the community, saying, “This award is not just for the police, it is for the people of Iloilo City who work with us, report crimes, and support our programs. We will continue to serve with professionalism and dedication to keep our city safe.”
The PNP’s annual Police Service Anniversary commemorates the founding of the Philippine Constabulary in 1901 and honors outstanding police units and partner local governments nationwide.
This year’s recognition adds to Iloilo City’s growing list of national citations for excellence in governance and public service./PN