By CESAR JOLITO III
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya has confirmed that five police officers have been endorsed as potential successors to Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) Director Colonel Joeresty Coronica, whose nearly two-year stint as city police chief is nearing its mandatory end.
Gasataya said the list of nominees was submitted by the Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), following the standard rotation and promotion protocols of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In a radio interview yesterday, the mayor emphasized that Coronica is already “due” for career advancement and expressed his full support for whatever assignment the outgoing city director may receive next.
According to Gasataya, his choice of the next BCPO chief will be based on several factors, including leadership capability, track record, performance in previous assignments, effectiveness in peace and order operations, and overall career development.
“Regardless of where they came from, performance is what matters most,” the mayor said, noting that previous areas of assignment and operational results will weigh heavily in his decision.
Gasataya stressed that his priority is ensuring that Bacolod residents continue to feel safe as the city sustains its peace and order initiatives and intensifies its campaign against illegal drugs.
Among the names included in the shortlist is Police Colonel Eugene Rebadomia from PRO-NIR, a resident of Bacolod City’s Barangay Mansilingan.
He also commended the BCPO under Coronica’s leadership, citing its performance in maintaining public safety and security across the city.
‘Sincere’
Meanwhile, Coronica described his leadership style as “leadership with sincerity,” reflecting on his term at BCPO.
“As a Bacolodnon, I made it a point to serve with sincerity and focus on maintaining peace and order in the city,” Coronica said.
He said his impending transfer is part of normal career progression within the police organization.
Coronica has served as BCPO director for almost two years, making him due for relief and promotion.
Sources indicated that Coronica may be temporarily assigned to PRO-NIR once his relief order is issued, which is expected within the week.
The final decision on who will assume the post of BCPO director rests with Gasataya, pending official orders from PNP headquarters./CJ, WDJ