MOTHERHOOD as they always say takes the strength of Samson, the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of job, the faith of Abraham, the insight of Daniel, and the courage of David.

Having said that, all I want for Christmas and New Year for all our police officers and men is to have the strength, wisdom, patience, faith, insight and the courage to do their job well to protect the country and keep the streets safe while most of us are sleeping.

Congratulations are also in order for the PNP headed by my friend, General Benjie Acorda for ensuring that there will really be a significant reduction in the overall crime volume in the country this year compared to last year’s records.

On Christmas Eve—the day where almost all Filipino families gathered to have their traditional ‘Noche Buena,’ -majority of the police force were on duty, away from their families to perform their duties. As a result, the number of eight focus crimes went down by 66.34 percent compared to last year.

I’m speaking here of 34 less cases of murder, homicide, physical injuries, rape, theft, robbery and motor vehicle and motorcycle theft. The PNP also recorded a significant reduction in all major crimes in the country in 2023 amid the stepped-up crackdown on drugs and other forms of criminality in the streets.

Official records will show that the country’s total crime volume significantly went down by more than eight percent this year compared to the 2022 figures amid the force’s resolve to fully maintain peace and order nationwide.

A PNP Operational Accomplishment Report from January to November 2023 said that amid its commitment to ensure public safety amid threats posed by criminals, terrorists and other lawless elements, aggressive and honest police operations and police interventions also led in the arrest of lawless elements that helped reduce the number of crimes they may have committed if they remained free.

Records showed that more than 56,000 drug targets were arrested during the period while over P10 billion worth of shabu and other prohibited drugs were confiscated by the police.

The campaign against loose firearms likewise led in the arrest of nearly 9,000 suspects and the recovery of more than 28,000 loose firearms. The period also saw the arrest of over 1,500 criminal gang leaders and members as well as nearly 60,000 Wanted Persons and Other Wanted Persons nationwide.

These are major feats accomplished by forever much-maligned police force which, according to Gen. Acorda really needs to ‘sacrifice’ as he spoke on the true essence of Christmas celebration.

“As we joyously celebrate the Christmas season, I take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt greetings to each and every one of you. This festive occasion serves as a poignant reminder of the true essence of Christmas, which lies in the spirit of sacrifice. Just as Jesus Christ was born more than two millennia ago in the humble confines of a stable, his life, bestowed upon humanity as a divine gift, remains an eternal symbol of love and mercy,” the top cop said.

The PNP chief stressed that police officers are entrusted with the duty to serve and protect the Filipino people while facing countless challenges and adversities throughout the year in their commitment to ensure the safety and security of the nation.

“We willingly sacrifice our time, comfort, and even our lives to fulfill this noble responsibility,” Acorda explained even as he underscored to his men the importance of the spirit of selflessness and kindness.

He also said Christmas ‘is a time to extend a helping hand to those in need and to cherish the moments spent with our families, who serve as our support and foundation. Together, let us embody the values of love, compassion, and generosity that define this season.”

Gen. Acorda also thanked the entire police force for their “unwavering commitment and dedication to the service of the Filipino people.” “Your sacrifices and tireless efforts in ensuring the safety and security of our nation do not go unnoticed. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a bountiful New Year filled with joy, peace, and renewed strength. May you find solace in the knowledge that your service brings comfort and security to our fellow Filipinos,” the PNP chief said.

Lastly, he reminded the Filipino people that “may the selfless service of the men and women in uniform provide you with a sense of security, allowing you to fully enjoy the holiday season. Rest assured that we will not let the actions of a few ruin the festivities. We are committed to being of service not only during the holidays but throughout the year. Together, let us stand strong and united against any challenges that come our way,” he said.

PROMOTION FOR DESERVING PNP OFFICIALS NOW

Having said that, may my wish for all deserving police officers to be promoted granted very soon. I’m saying this since it has been more than a month since PBBM, upon talks with Gen. Acorda ordered the approval of the long-delated promotion of 3rd-Level PNP officers amid a demoralization that hit the organization.

Gen. Acorda was lauded by his men for standing up for them and keeping PBBM fully aware of the ‘demoralization’ that swept the PNP Officers’ Corps due to their delayed promotion which they traced to the so-called ‘red tape.’ Indeed, many of those promoted last November waited for their promotion for 10 long months or more.

For many of them, Gen. Acorda became God’s instrument to help them overcome the challenges. ““When I thought it would never come, I kept my faith truly believing that meritocracy has its place in the PNP. Maraming nag-isip na hindi na darating ang promotion ngayong taon na ito but despite the agony, it came and I believe that credit should be given to where credit is due,” remarked PNP Director for Operations, Major Gen. Leo Francisco after donning his new rank.

However, Gen. Acorda has another job to do before he ends his extended term on March 31, 2024. And that is to lead the oath-taking of a number of PNP generals and colonels who have been left out in the promotion this year. Is it another case of government ‘red tape’ at its worst again? Will it take another strong protest from the PNP before concerned government officials sign the promotion papers of affected officials?

Last month, Gen. Acorda said major credit should be given by his generals to PBBM.

“Hindi ako tatapang na ganun if kung hindi ko alam na nasa likod ko ang Presidente. Every now and then, mga two times kami nagmi-meet. Pero during the last four months, part of my briefing is the promotion in the PNP and he will always say yes. The last three months, siya na mismo tumatawag at nagtatanong nasaan na mga papel. Kaya lumakas ang loob ko because I know that our President is very supportive of your plight,” Gen. Acorda revealed.