The police chiefs of Caloocan, Navotas and Valenzuela cities have been removed from their posts for failing to comply with the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s five-minute response mandate.
Their removal is part of a larger reshuffle that has seen eight police chiefs in Metro Manila relieved of duty, PNP chief Police General Nicolas Torre III confirmed in an interview.
The Northern Police District (NPD) conducted a Turnover and Assumption of Office Ceremony on Sunday for the affected cities. NPD director Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan stated that communication issues and shortcomings contributed to the leadership changes.
“The previous chiefs had lapses, particularly in communication and leadership — they were somewhat lax,” Ligan said. “That’s why we’re now looking for commanders who are driven and truly fit for the position.”
He added that the PNP chief desires commanders who are fast and can execute quick responses.
Col. Joey Goforth, formerly the Taguig City Police Chief who was placed on administrative relief in February, will now serve as the officer-in-charge of the Caloocan City Police, replacing P/Col. Paul Jady Doles.
In Navotas City, P/Col. Renante Pinuela, former Force Commander of the District Mobile Force Battalion of the Northern Police District, will take over as officer-in-charge, replacing P/Col. Mario Cortes.
Meantime, PCol. Gerson Bisayas, previously the chief of the District Personnel and Records Management Division of the Northern Police District, will now head the Valenzuela City Police, replacing P/Col. Relly Arnedo.
The five-minute response time to 911 calls was one of Torre’s initial directives upon assuming leadership, with an aim for full implementation within a month.