BACOLOD City – Police Colonel Dennis Wenceslao has officially assumed command as the officer-in-charge of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) effective September 9, following the reassignment of former director Colonel Rainero de Chavez.
A turnover ceremony was held at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Barangay Estefania, this city.
Wenceslao, a native of Nueva Ecija, previously served as chief of the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division of the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region before his new designation. De Chavez, meanwhile, has been reassigned to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, who graced the ceremony, expressed gratitude to De Chavez for his service.
“Your leadership has helped strengthen peace and order in our province, guided your officers with discipline and professionalism, and fostered strong collaboration with our LGUs and stakeholders. We salute you for your service and the legacy you leave behind,” he said.
The governor also extended a warm welcome to Wenceslao.
“Sir, you are taking on a great responsibility that was honorably and dutifully fulfilled by Colonel De Chavez. We trust in your leadership to build upon the foundations laid by your predecessors, and to bring fresh energy, vision, and resolve in the continuing fight against criminality, illegal drugs, and threats to public safety,” Lacson said, assuring him of the full support of the provincial government and the communities he will serve.
In his acceptance speech, Wenceslao said his leadership will focus on strengthening partnerships.
“I recognize that this new role is not just about leadership, but about building stronger bridges of cooperation. Together with our partners in government, private institutions, and especially the community, we can create a culture of peace and security that is both inclusive and sustainable,” he said.
Wenceslao added that his direction will be anchored on the 7-Point Focus Agenda of the acting chief of the Philippine National Police, tailored to fit NOCPPO’s implementation plan./PN
