NEW YEAR’S CALL. Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho ‘Icot’ Petilla has called on the men and women of the Leyte Police Provincial Office to always uphold professionalism, competency and apolitical as he graced the annual New Year’s Call held on Jan. 16. (LPPO FACEBOOK)

TACLOBAN CITY — The Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) kicked off 2026 by reaffirming its commitment to credible, accountable, and people-centered policing as it joined Governor Carlos Jericho “Icot” Petilla’s New Year’s Call on January 16 at the provincial capitol multi-purpose hall in Palo, Leyte.

Led by Provincial Director Col. Dionisio DC Apas Jr., the LPPO took part in the annual gathering, a long-standing Philippine National Police (PNP) tradition that serves as a platform to strengthen unity, deepen partnerships with local government, and renew commitment to good governance.

In his message, Governor Petilla underscored the importance of credibility and accountability in public service, calling on police officers to remain competent, professional, and apolitical in the discharge of their duties.

He also assured the LPPO of the provincial government’s full support, recognizing the police force as a vital partner in maintaining peace and order across Leyte.

Also in attendance were Lt.Col. Leonardo Angcon, deputy provincial director for administration, members of the provincial staff, section and office chiefs, chiefs of police from the 1st to the 5th districts, and force commanders of the Provincial Mobile Force Companies (PMFCs).

The LPPO said its participation in the New Year’s Call reflects its continuing resolve to uphold transparency, accountability, and public trust while working closely with the provincial government in advancing peace, security, and good governance in Leyte.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)