ILOILO City – Newly appointed Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) director Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan is setting a high bar for police responsiveness and accountability, announcing that commanders across Western Visayas will be evaluated based on how swiftly and effectively they respond to calls for assistance.
Speaking during the turnover of command ceremony on June 21 at Camp Martin Teofilo Delgado here, Ligan underscored that regaining and strengthening public trust hinges on timely action — not just presence.
“Every call for help from the public deserves immediate action. That’s how we build trust, by showing up when people need us the most,” Ligan said.
In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for a five-minute police response time in highly urbanized cities, Ligan said PRO-6 will begin a thorough review of mobility assets, communication equipment, and logistical capacity to meet the standard.
“I will personally assess each police commander and their units to ensure that they are capable, ready, and responsive,” he added. “This is not just about compliance, it’s about giving the community the quality service they expect from us.”
Particular focus will be placed on the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), which Ligan identified as a critical area for implementing fast-response strategies due to its urban layout and existing infrastructure.
The Philippine National Police earlier clarified that the five-minute response time goal primarily applies to city centers like Iloilo City, where deployment conditions are favorable.
Ligan, a veteran officer with prior assignments in Ilocos Region and Metro Manila, emphasized a performance-driven and service-focused leadership style. He vowed that while resources differ across provinces, commitment to swift action and public service must be uniform.
“What should remain consistent is our commitment to serve, act swiftly, and earn the trust of the people,” he said.
An inventory of patrol vehicles and communication tools will be conducted to determine the logistical gaps and prioritize resource allocation.
“This isn’t just about managing crime, it’s about reinforcing public confidence. People must know that their police force is present, accountable, and dependable,” Ligan stressed.
Ligan succeeded Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky, who has been reassigned to head the Police Regional Office IV-A (CALABARZON).
Wanky’s tenure as PRO-6 director was marked by major accomplishments in crime prevention, anti-drug operations, and the maintenance of peace and order throughout Western Visayas, particularly during the 2025 midterm elections which saw no major security incidents.
“General Wanky’s leadership brought notable improvements not only in internal operations but also in our public engagement. He set a clear direction in maintaining peace and order and strengthened our commitment to public trust,” said PRO-6 spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Solis./PN
