NAPOLCOM head intensifies reform drive

National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Commissioner Rafael Calinisan has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening public trust in law enforcement through transparency, accountability, and meaningful reforms.

Calinisan said he remains confident in the leadership of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., whom he described as a fellow advocate of positive change within the police organization.

He noted the strong public support for Nartatez’s efforts to enhance peace and order, improve police services, and foster stronger ties with communities.

Speaking during the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel, Nartatez acknowledged the public’s confidence in the police force.

“We are grateful for the trust and confidence of our fellow Filipinos. This recognition is not for one person alone but for the men and women of the PNP who work tirelessly every day to keep our communities safe. Malaking inspirasyon ito para lalo pa naming pagbutihin ang aming serbisyo.”

Calinisan echoed the PNP chief’s sentiments, saying public trust remains the most important asset of law enforcement agencies. He vowed to continue promoting transparency, accountability, and community-based policing.

Upon assuming office, Calinisan immediately turned his attention to NAPOLCOM’s core responsibilities. He also pledged stronger engagement with local communities.

“Palalakasin natin ang ating ugnayan sa mga komunidad at sisiguraduhin natin na ang bawat aksyon natin ay nakatuon sa kapakanan ng mamamayan,” he said.

Addressing police officers and personnel, he added: “I got your back.”

The commissioner also launched efforts to address the agency’s long-standing backlog of unresolved cases.

“Nagulat po ako sa dami ng mga kasong pending at hindi pa nareresolba. May ilan nga na 25 years nang nakabinbin kaya ito ang ating agad na pinagkaabalahan para linisin tulad noong nasa PLEB (People’s Law Enforcement Board) pa ako ng Quezon City,” he recalled.

Calinisan likewise defended his recent confrontation with Rizal police officer Corporal Simeon Suan, whose arrest of a senior citizen sparked public outrage.

“The violation, the video was viral. The arrest of the senior citizen was viral. That necessitates a public response,” Calinisan said.

“It is our job to inform the general public that this happened and that the government is taking action. We need to earn the people’s trust every single day. We cannot operate under a cloud of darkness,” he added.

The controversy stemmed from a viral video showing Suan handcuffing a 76-year-old man and dragging him toward a vehicle following a minor traffic collision along Manuel L. Quezon Avenue in Barangay Bagumbayan, Taguig City.

The Rizal Provincial Police Office later relieved Suan from his post and placed him under restrictive custody while the incident is being investigated.

During a press briefing with Calinisan, Suan maintained that the elderly man had attempted to run him over. He also told the commissioner, “Don’t make me an instrument to look good to the media.”

Calinisan responded with a remark that drew attention online.

“I’m not trying to look good. I do look good. My mom said I look good. My 100-year-old grandmother told me I look good. I believe I look good and I won’t be running for office.” TRACY CABRERA