LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – Newly-installed Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Director PCol. Frederick Eslava Obar formally assumes position, replacing PCol. Julius Suriben, in a turnover of command ceremony on Jan. 29 at Camp Valentin S. Juan in Laoag City.

In an interview, Obar said his brand of leadership is transformational leadership and will enforce relentless efforts on the anti-drug campaign, crime reduction, and community engagement.

“Tuluy-tuloy ang laban natin kontra droga. The problem of drug addiction starts within the family kaya dapat ito ang makita ng mga kababayan natin. Kailangan ito ang pagtulungan ng families,” said Obar.

Moreover, the acting police chief will implement programs to strengthen anti-cybercrime issues, given the heavy reliance and use of social media by the people.

“With the advent of technology, ito yung nakikita natin na rising crime- ang cybercrime. Nandiyan na ang problema sa extortion at iba pa,” added Obar.

He is referring to the crime of obtaining money from someone by using force or threats.

As a former member of the Special Action Force (SAF) and wide experience in the operations, he rose from the ranks and advocates strengthening the skills and capabilities police force in their service.

“We’re thinking of investing on trainings on digital and other high-tech courses,” added the acting provincial director.

To realize the transformational programs he will be implementing, he wants to ensure that police personnel will service with utmost honesty, dedication, and commitment.

“I shall commit my lowkey and transformational leadership. May we all commit in our hearts that we are entrusted with the vocation of safeguarding communities and upholding principles of justice,” said Obar in his speech.

Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc served as the guest and honor of speaker during the ceremony and congratulated the outgoing INPPO director Suriben for a job well done. He hopes the programs Suriben has started will be sustained and looks forward to the collaboration with the new police chief. (JCR/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)