“Community partnership is essential. Crime prevention is everybody’s business. Let us make sure the public sees us not just as enforcers, but as partners in peace and development.”
Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr., newly-installed Police Regional Office Region 3 (PRO 3) director, shared these words to Central Luzon policemen during a change of command ceremony in Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando on Monday, June 2.
Lieutenant General Jose Nartatez Jr., Philippine National Police (PNP) Deputy Chief For Administration, presides over the ceremony.
Peñones replaced Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, who was designated as finance chief of the PNP.
“We must remain on our toes 24/7. Our goal is a 5-minute response time, available at all times," Peñones told his men. "All commanders must be accessible, anytime, anywhere. We strive to serve and protect with urgency because public service does not wait.”
The event was attended by representatives from government and law enforcement agencies, including Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., local government units (LGUs), and National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Peñones emphasized the importance of unity and trust within the police force. “We must build a strong police force based on trust and camaraderie. We need each other. We must act as one, move as one, and protect each other with the same dedication we show the people we serve.”
He also highlighted the value of effective management of resources.
“Let us give special emphasis to effective resource management. Every piece of equipment and every centavo of public funds must be accounted for. Nothing should be wasted, nothing should be abused," he said.
Peñones also pushed for reforms in public service. “We must embrace innovation, ensure transparency, and continuously update our mindsets. Integrity is non-negotiable. Always do what is right—and when in doubt, seek guidance from a Higher Power.”
Peñones served as the Provincial Director of Zambales Provincial Police Office in 2019.