ILOILO — Pavia, Iloilo’s Mayor Laurence Anthony “Luigi” Gorriceta has appealed to the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to reinstate Police Major Bryan Alamo as officer-in-charge of the Pavia Municipal Police Station (MPS), arguing that the abrupt relief of the police officer could disrupt ongoing peace and order initiatives in one of Iloilo Province’s fastest-growing municipalities.
In a letter sent to IPPO director Police Colonel Bayani Razalan on May 28, Gorriceta requested the reconsideration of the order relieving Alamo, who had been designated as OIC of the Pavia MPS on May 22 but was reassigned just five days later.
“I am writing in response to your recent communication dated May 28, 2026, regarding the selection of a new Officer-in-Charge (OIC) for the Pavia Municipal Police Station from the provided list of eligible Police Commissioned Officers. We sincerely appreciate the prompt attention of the IPPO in addressing the leadership vacancy in our municipality and for seeking our local input on the matter,” part of Gorriceta’s letter stated.
The mayor said Alamo’s return would help preserve continuity in law enforcement programs and sustain gains made under his leadership.
“After careful evaluation and considering the current peace and order landscape of Pavia, we would like to formally request for the reinstatement of Police Major Bryan Alamo as the OIC of the Pavia Municipal Police Station,” the letter added.
Gorriceta described Alamo as an effective police leader who strengthened cooperation between the police and the community while addressing local security concerns.
According to the mayor, Alamo demonstrated “exceptional leadership,” possessed a strong understanding of Pavia’s peace and order situation, and adopted a proactive approach that significantly improved community-police relations.
His familiarity with local conditions, Gorriceta said, enabled smooth police operations and effective coordination with stakeholders.
“We believe that his return would provide the continuity and stability necessary to maintain the momentum of our ongoing crime prevention and public safety programs,” Gorriceta wrote.
The mayor also expressed confidence in Razalan’s judgment and commitment to ensuring that the Pavia police force remains under capable leadership. He said he is willing to provide further justification should the provincial police chief require additional information regarding the request.
The appeal came a day after the IPPO clarified that Alamo’s reassignment was carried out in accordance with existing personnel management policies.
In a statement issued May 28, the IPPO said Alamo’s designation as OIC of the Pavia MPS was only temporary and that his cumulative tour of duty as chief of police had already exceeded six years, necessitating his transfer to a staff position at the provincial headquarters.
The provincial police office said the reassignment was part of efforts to ensure proper personnel distribution, promote professional growth, and improve organizational efficiency while maintaining uninterrupted police services.
“The reassignment forms part of the organization’s continuing efforts to ensure personnel distribution, promote professional growth, and strengthen organizational efficiency while maintaining uninterrupted police services to the community,” the IPPO said.
The office likewise assured the public that the transfer would not affect the Philippine National Police’s commitment to maintaining peace and order and ensuring public safety in Pavia.
Alamo took over the Pavia MPS following the relief of Police Captain Ritz Field Presquito, who was removed from the post in the aftermath of the controversial death of Frank Rois Barbaza, whose burned body was discovered inside a subdivision in Barangay Ungka I, Pavia.
Currently serving as temporary OIC of the Pavia police station is Police Lieutenant Garry Tayongtong, who also serves as deputy chief of police./PN
