Quezon city: The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) was recognized as the country’s Best City Police Office, while the city government received a special award for its support to the Philippine National Police during the 124th Police Service Anniversary at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday. ICPO Director Col. Kim Legada and former Iloilo City mayor Jerry Tre±as received the award from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a ceremony at the PNP national headquarters.
According to Philippines News Agency, the police office bested two other finalists — the Davao City Police Office and the Butuan City Police Office — while the city government won over the city governments of Zamboanga and Pasig for the highly urbanized/independent city category as top performing city for investment in resources, infrastructure, and other strategic peace and order initiatives boosting the local police force.
‘This award is a testament to the hard work, professionalism, and commitment of every member of ICPO, as well as the strong partnership we share with our local government and stakeholders. We will continue to serve with honor and dedication to ensure the safety and security of our beloved Iloilo City,’ Legada said in a statement.
Data showed that from April 2024 to March 31 this year, ICPO logged a 96.43 crime clearance efficiency and 92.73 percent solution efficiency, surpassing national targets. For the same period, the city government poured PHP477 million in assistance to the ICPO, particularly for operating expenses. From 2020 to 2025, four new police stations were established, while multiple substations were located in Ilonggo Community Action for Resilience and Empowerment (ICARE) buildings.
Meanwhile, Barangay Semirara in Caluya, Antique, emerged as the Best Barangay for Peace and Order Initiatives, bringing to three the national awards bagged by Western Visayas during the celebration.
In a statement, the Police Regional Office here said the awards highlighted the ‘strong collaboration with local government units, barangays, and the broader community, underscoring its mission to foster a safer, more progressive Western Visayas.’ ‘These recognitions inspire us to continue serving with honor, justice, and integrity. Let us always remember that when we work together, success follows. Let’s continue to make PRO6 the KasaLIGAN, Kaapin, at Kaagapay of Western Visayas,’ PRO Western Visayas Director Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan said in the statement.
