Some of the new police recruits are congratulated by their loved ones them after their oath-taking in Camp Sergio Osmeña Sr. (CDN PHOTO/JUNJIE MENDOZA)
More than 300 recruits took their oaths as police officers yesterday at the Police Regional Office 7 grounds.
After months of rigorous screening, 280 males and 76 females have qualified for the PO1 Recruitment Program of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
One of them is Socrates Bacalso Jr. from Barangay Dakit, Bogo City in northern Cebu. Bacalso can now provide for his family’s needs after realizing his dream to become a policeman.
“Ang nakapa-motivate gyud nako no kay ang akong pamilya ra gyud. Kay sa panahon karon kailangan stable atong trabaho ba (My family gives me motivation. Nowadays, it is important to have a stable job),” Bacalso said.
Bacalso credited his success to his parents, who supported his application for police service.
Bacalso will be assigned to the Cebu Provincial Police Office.
PRO-7 Director Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, who officiated the oath-taking, welcomed the new officers.
Taliño exhorted the new officers to adhere to the organization’s strict protocols and procedures as well as to be effective, responsible and trustworthy officers.
He also reiterated the marching order of PNP Chief Ronald dela Rosa that police should not be involved in illicit activities, especially illegal drugs.
“You are being given this opportunity to enter this service. Wag niyo nang haluan ng kalokohan. I will be quick in dismissing you if you engage in illegal activites,” Taliño said.
During his stint at the National Capital Region Police Office, he recounted that many new police officers were facing charges because of their alleged involvement in criminal activities.
Bacalso reacted to Taliño’s statement, saying he would genuinely serve the PNP, and avoid criminal activities.
“Ang pamolis man gud, dili sayon sudlon. Mao nang dili gyud ka magbinuang. Usa ka sipyat nimo, tangtang ka sa serbisyo (It is not easy to join the police force. That is why I won’t get involved in criminal activities. One mistake could cost you your job),” Bacalso said.
After their oath-taking, the new police officers will continue their in-service training for six more months at the Regional Training Center in Consolacion town, northern Cebu. /UP Cebu Intern Patrick Byron G. Gattoc