• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Bacolod City Police Office gets a new commander, as outgoing commander, PCol. Thomas Joseph Martir, prepares for retirement from the police service on May 14.
Martir was replaced yesterday by PCol. Noel Calderon Aliño, former provincial police director of Iloilo.
Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez requested the appointment of a new BCPO head, after expressing alarm over numerous incidents on the dumping of dismembered human body parts over the past several months, in different areas of Bacolod City.
His request was immediately granted by the PNP, who designated Aliño as BCPO chief, in acting capacity, effective April 18.
Benitez, who attended the BCPO turnover of command ceremony, said he wants Aliño to look for ways in addressing dumping of human body parts, as he expects also a high level of service to be rendered to Bacoleños.
Aliño accepted the challenge, as he vowed to further maximize police visibility operations in Bacolod City.
“Crime deterrence is police visibility,” stressed Aliño in an interview with the media, after the turnover of command ceremony.
He also vowed to do his utmost best in protecting the people of Bacolod City, utilizing his experiences gained during his assignment at the Manila Police District.
Aliño also stressed that he will never tolerate any wrongdoings among BCPO personnel, as he will also hold liable police commanders for crimes that may take place in their areas.
On the other hand, Martir thanked Mayor Benitez, Rep. Greg Gasataya, as well as the Bacoleños, for the support they extended to the BCPO during his stint as its commander.*
