Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Tuesday led the oath-taking of Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. as the new Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), signaling renewed efforts to make communities safer and improve public security nationwide.

Remulla announced that he and Nartatez will jointly present a comprehensive citizen security strategy within a month, following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to boost police visibility, improve operational efficiency, and ensure public safety.

“Our goal is simple: to make Filipinos feel safer in their homes, on the streets, and in their daily lives. Within a month, General Nartatez and I will present a citizen security strategy focused on public safety,” Remulla said during the turnover ceremony at PNP Headquarters, Camp Crame, Quezon City.

The DILG chief assured that the new strategy will complement ongoing reforms and not delay existing programs. He reaffirmed the national launch of the unified Emergency 911 system on September 12, with Nartatez overseeing its rollout.

“Effective reforms from former PNP Chiefs, including the five-minute response rule introduced by Gen. Torre, will continue under Gen. Nartatez’s leadership,” he added.

Nartatez, who previously served as PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, pledged to strengthen the police force’s readiness, responsiveness, and integrity. He also committed to carry forward the national campaign against illegal drugs, terrorism, cybercrime, and loose firearms, while boosting the morale and well-being of police personnel.

Among his immediate priorities are improving the PNP’s business continuity plan, enhancing security operations, implementing comprehensive event security protocols, and monitoring the integrity of police personnel at all levels.

Remulla praised the new OIC’s track record: “General Nartatez has served the PNP with honor and integrity. The President carefully reviewed all candidates and found him most qualified to lead the PNP at this crucial time.”

The DILG stressed that the transition in leadership marks not just continuity, but renewed determination to deliver effective policing and citizen protection in pursuit of a safer Bagong Pilipinas.

Original Article At: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/Remulla-Swears-In-New-PNP-OIC-Nartatez-Unveils-Plans-for-Comprehensive-Citizen-Security-Strategy/NC-2025-1161