Lingayen: Newly-installed Pangasinan Police officer-in-charge director Col. Arbel Mercullo has pledged to uphold the leadership pillars set by Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III. These pillars focus on swift and responsive public service, unity and morale within the ranks, and accountability through modernization.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mercullo, who succeeded Col. Ricardo David, stated his initial plan involves convening with the chiefs of police from the province's 48 towns and cities. His aim is to assess each station's capability to implement a five-minute emergency response. "We will assess their capabilities and implement it since it is the directive from our chief of the Philippine National Police. And we will implement it strategically," Mercullo mentioned during an interview after the command turnover ceremony at Camp Governor Antonio Sison in Lingayen town, Pangasinan.

Mercullo emphasized the importance of police visibility and the enforcement of provincial ordinances and laws. He committed to upholding the highest standards of police service, ensuring safety and security for all residents in their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. "As the incoming Provincial Director, I am here to serve. Let us move forward together, united by our common vision of peace, order, and development," Mercullo assured the public.

Brig. Gen. Dindo Reyes, Police Regional Office 1 (Ilocos) officer-in-charge, instructed Mercullo to prioritize the physical fitness of police personnel, linking a strong body to a strong sense of discipline. Reyes also urged Mercullo to intensify anti-criminality operations across the province. "Pangasinan is a vast and vital province. Let us ensure that every border, from coastal towns to city centers, feels the presence of a reliable and alert police force," Reyes advised, emphasizing the necessity of proactive measures in crime prevention.