Legazpi: The new Bicol police chief, Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr., vowed to institutionalize the five-minute response time which he described as a "bold but achievable goal". During the command turnover ceremony at the Police Regional Office-5 Grandstand in Camp Simeon Ola, Babagay said his mission aligns with Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III's commitment to swift public service.
According to Philippines News Agency, upon assuming his post, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III vowed that not only would there be more cops on the streets, but quick response from them when people ask for emergency assistance. He said the emergency response strategy is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to make more visible on the streets, more active in its mandate in preventing and solving crimes.
Babagay also stressed the importance of unity and morale among officers. "We should always be united. As your regional director, I will promote professionalism, transparency, and genuine concern for the welfare of my men. From the patrolman up to the senior level officers and the non-uniformed personnel, under my command, only a motivated and united force can truly serve the public with quality service," Babagay said.
Babagay assured that accountability would be a practice, not just a principle. "Let us build a police force that is not only effective but worthy of public confidence and trust," he said. "Talk to the public. Ensure that the community not only sees you but also feels your presence. Respond to calls for assistance within five minutes, keeping in mind the specific circumstances of the area and the safety of your personnel."
He said the PRO-5 would work to prevent crime through "honest, quality patrols and prompt responses" to calls. Babagay succeeded Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, who served as regional director for one year and seven months and will now assume the role of director of the Philippine National Police Academy.
A native of San Francisco, Iriga City, Camarines Sur, Babagay is an alumnus of the Philippine National Police Academy 'Patnubay' Class of 1995. Before his new assignment, he served as the Director of the Police Security and Protection Group and held key leadership positions, including Executive Officer of the PNP Directorate for Intelligence and Deputy Director for Administration of the PNP Intelligence Group.
