ILOILO City – Newly installed Western Visayas police director Police Brigadier General Randolf Tuaño has ordered police chiefs and commanders across Western Visayas to respond more quickly to media queries and release timely information on crimes and public safety incidents, stressing that silence and delayed communication can fuel misinformation and erode public trust.
The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) chief emphasized the need for immediate, coordinated, and responsible engagement with the media, especially during developing incidents, as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability within the police organization.
Tuaño said police personnel should provide prompt acknowledgment or initial updates even while facts are still being validated.
“Such responsiveness promotes openness, trust, mutual respect, and continued professionalism in the engagement with media partners in service to the public,” he said.
The PRO-6 chief underscored that the timely release of accurate information is essential in maintaining public confidence and preventing the spread of misinformation.
Having previously served as spokesperson of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Tuaño said he deeply recognizes the crucial role of the media in public service and in keeping communities informed.
Under his leadership, PRO-6 vowed to further strengthen its partnership with the media in Western Visayas while continuing to deliver “responsive, reliable, and people-centered service guided by integrity, accountability, and respect.”
Tuaño recently assumed the top PRO-6 post following the reassignment of Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan to the Philippine National Police’s Directorate for Operations after serving as regional director for 11 months and two days.
The leadership transition was formalized through Special Orders signed by Lieutenant General Neri Vincent Ignacio, chief of the Directorial Staff.
A member of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 1995, Tuaño previously served as PNP chief spokesperson and head of the Public Information Office.
Ligan, for his part, thanked police personnel and stakeholders in Western Visayas for their support during his stint, which was marked by intensified anti-illegal drug operations and peace and order campaigns in the region./PN
