Manila: A total of 281 officers from the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) were promoted to the next higher rank at a ceremony held at Camp Simeon Ola here on Wednesday. PRO-5 director Brig. Gen. Erosita Miranda, who led the ceremony, called on the newly promoted second-level uniformed personnel to embrace their new ranks as a greater responsibility during the simultaneous oath-taking, donning, and pinning of ranks.

According to Philippines News Agency, Miranda emphasized that promotion is not merely about achieving a new or higher rank; it is about accepting the associated challenges. In his speech, Miranda highlighted that every promotion brings increased leadership responsibilities. He specifically mentioned officers who have been promoted from police captain to police major, noting that they will now oversee more personnel and face heavier obligations.

Miranda urged the newly promoted officers to expand their knowledge, gain more experience, undergo further training, and prepare themselves for the greater responsibilities that come with their new ranks. He also encouraged them to uphold integrity and professionalism by eliminating undesirable practices and following good examples within the police service.

The promoted personnel included a diverse group: 58 majors, three captains, 36 lieutenants, two executive master sergeants, 15 chief master sergeants, four senior master sergeants, 10 master sergeants, 83 staff sergeants, and 70 corporals.