PERSONNEL assigned in the regional offices of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Western Visayas and Central Visayas have swapped posts.
At least 89 personnel of PDEA-Western Visayas and 91 of PDEA-Central Visayas, exchanged places.
“It is a straight swap between the entire workforce of PDEA Regional Offices in Western Visayas and Central Visayas Offices, including its regional directors, with the exception of technical personnel such as chemists and drug regulatory officers,” said PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino.
Aquino said that lateral movement of personnel is a regular practice in drug law enforcement to increase flexibility and adaptability within the organization. “Though they are about to expose themselves to unfamiliar territory, it is a welcome benefit for the transferees to learn new knowledge and skills set, an opportunity for professional growth,” he said.
Also, the movement is part of the continuing internal cleansing program of the agency. “We need to transfer people to avoid familiarity and affinity in their areas of responsibility so as not to compromise credibility and integrity,” the PDEA chief said.
“As a precautionary measure, the reassignment bodes well for the safety of our operatives in Central Visayas because they are now at greater risk following the death of Investigation Agent III Earl “Baby” Rallos who was shot by unidentified gunmen on his way home driving his vehicle,” Aquino said, as he ordered all PDEA operating units to exercise extreme and prudent caution in the performance of their duties and responsibilities.
PDEA never stays stagnant and is constantly on the move, to remain focused in the fight against the drug menace, added the PDEA chief. (PDEA-Central Visayas)