PNP leadership change in Cebu ill-advised – mayor

CEBU CITY — Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has raised concerns over the leadership change at the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), describing its timing as ill-advised, with the Sinulog Festival preparations in full swing.

The new Police Regional Office Central Visayas (PRO-7) director, BGen. Redrico Atienza Maranan, recently assumed his role, leading to the appointment of Col. Enrico Figueroa as the CCPO's new officer-in-charge.

Figueroa replaced Col. Antonietto Cañete, who had been deeply involved in the city's security planning for Sinulog 2025.

Garcia criticized the leadership shift, pointing out that it occurred during a critical period for Sinulog preparations.

"So, now in the middle of the road, in the middle of everything, you replace them. The timing doesn't seem very good," he said in mix Cebuano and English during a press conference on Monday.

The mayor expressed frustration, saying he was not consulted about the change and would have opposed it if asked. He explained that security measures, which were being supervised by Cañete, were already in place, making the transition disruptive.

Garcia nevertheless directed Figueroa to thoroughly study and implement the security plans laid out by his predecessor to ensure the festival's safety.

He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to prioritizing public safety for both residents and visitors.

Garcia commended Cañete's six-month stint as CCPO chief, describing him as one of the most capable leaders to hold the position. Cañete's efforts were particularly notable for his role in addressing public safety concerns and spearheading preparations for the Sinulog Festival.

Cañete's term was not without challenges, including his controversial arrest of former city administrator Collin Rosell for alleged usurpation of authority. Despite this, the mayor lauded his overall performance and contributions to the city.

Garcia acknowledged that leadership transitions in local police offices are typical, especially with the installation of a new PRO-7 director.

However, he stressed that such changes should be carefully timed to avoid interference with major events like Sinulog.

In his initial meeting with Garcia, Figueroa assured the mayor of his dedication to maintaining peace and order during Sinulog 2025.

He pledged to uphold and enhance the city's security strategies, leveraging lessons from previous assignments in festival security management.

As Cebu City prepares to welcome millions of visitors for the highly anticipated Sinulog Festival, local leaders are working to ensure a seamless celebration despite the abrupt leadership change at the CCPO.