‘I’VE Sserved Cebu City long enough’

05/25/10 - SENIOR Supt. Patrocinio Comendador Jr. has been head of the nearly 1,000-strong Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) for more than three years.

Now, he is prepared to let go of his post to allow the incoming mayor to choose the next city police chief.

Comendador yesterday told reporters that he would leave his office once he received an order from Camp Crame, headquarters of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

He said that a few months ago, he was asked by Camp Crame how long should be the tour of duty of a city or provincial police director.

He replied three years so it would be co-terminus with the term of office of the mayor or governor which also runs for three years.

Comendador assumed as CCPO chief in January 2007.

The Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) expects a reshuffling of officials after the May 10 elections.

Comendador said Cebu City Mayor-elect Michael Rama should have a free hand in picking the city's next police chief.

Asked what is his preferred next assignment, Comendador said “I will be amenable to wherever they will put me. I have served (Cebu) City for a long time already.”

Comendador explained that his rank has corresponding positions in the regional office.

Rumors have cropped up that Comendador would be the next chief of Regional Intelligence Division.

Comendador was chief of the investigation division of PRO-7 before assuming as CCPO chief. (Inquirer.net)