PENONES JR. IS THE NEW PRO3 DIRECTOR

BY KEVIN GALANG

THE Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has a new director  in the person of Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Penones Jr..

Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., the Deputy Chief for Administration of the Philippine National Police (PNP),  on Monday led the formal turnover of command of Penones Jr. succeeding Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.

The change of command was attended by representatives from various government and law enforcement agencies, including Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., local government officials, and Regional Directors of the National Police Commission (Napolcom) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA,) all showing their support for the historic transition of police leadership in Central Luzon.

In his assumption speech, Penones laid out his clear and firm directives for the entire PRO3 force.

“We must remain on our toes 24/7. Our goal is a 5-minute response time, available at all times. All commanders must be accessible—anytime, anywhere. We strive to serve and protect with urgency because public service does not wait,” he said.

Penones emphasized the importance of unity and mutual trust within the police ranks.

“We must build a strong police force based on trust and camaraderie. We need each other. We must act as one, move as one, and protect each other with the same dedication we show the people we serve,” he added.

Penones Jr. also stressed the value of efficient resource management.

“Let us give special emphasis to effective resource management. Every piece of equipment and every centavo of public funds must be accounted for. Nothing should go to waste; nothing should be abused,” he said.

He added that promoting meaningful transformation is important within the organization.

“We must embrace innovation, ensure transparency, and continuously update our mindsets. Integrity is non-negotiable. Always do what is right—and when in doubt, seek guidance from a Higher Power,” the new Central Luzon top cop said.

“Community partnership is essential. Crime prevention is everybody’s business. Let us make sure the public sees us not just as enforcers, but as partners in peace and development,” he noted.

He concluded his message with a call to action: “I expect nothing less than your full commitment. Let’s start the day right, and every day hereafter—with purpose, urgency, and unwavering service.”

Penones’ return to Central Luzon, having previously served as provincial director of the Zambales Police Provincial Office, is widely seen as the comeback of a seasoned and dedicated leader with a deep concern for the organization, the community, and every officer under his command.

His leadership is expected to bring renewed energy, discipline, and direction to the entire region, in line with the national leadership’s vision for a more effective and compassionate police service.