By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Newly appointed acting Police Regional Office–11 regional director, Police Brig. General Joseph R. Arguelles, commended the peace and order situation in Davao City during his first ten days in office, describing it as “very peaceful and calm” .
“Davao City is truly a beautiful place. The peace and serenity here are unlike anything in Metro Manila. It’s a city where you can sleep peacefully at night,” Arguelles said following his visits to various police units and government offices across the region.
Arguelles admired the professionalism and demeanor of the police personnel under PRO-11, highlighting their respectful and welcoming attitude. He noted that the officers had pledged their full support, aligning with the broader mission of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
He also reaffirmed his commitment to enforce the PNP’s three-minute response policy by bolstering police presence across communities.
“We intend to maximize the already favorable peace and order climate in Davao Region. With continued implementation of sound PNP policies, we can further boost public trust and attract more investments and tourism,” he said in a media interview.
In line with modernization efforts, Arguelles revealed plans to introduce accountability mechanisms, strengthen police morale, and incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance operational efficiency.
He also introduced a more accessible approach to policing, emphasizing prompt and visible law enforcement. “Don’t look for the police in the precinct — they’re now on your phones. Call 911, and we’ll be there in three to five minutes,” he said.
To ensure the realistic implementation of the rapid response strategy, Arguelles tasked provincial and city police directors to identify areas where the response time can be consistently met, with remote and hard-to-reach locations to be given reasonable adjustments.
Despite the challenges in far-flung areas, he assured the public of a timely police response. To ensure readiness, station and substation commanders undergo daily communication drills and leadership development.
Arguelles also stressed the importance of close coordination with barangay officials. He directed police chiefs to maintain active communication with local leaders, as they often notice new individuals, unusual activities, or emerging concerns in their communities.
“I told them outright — if drug enforcement or NBI operatives conduct a raid in their area without their knowledge, they will be relieved immediately. There’s no place for complacency in this organization,” he warned.
Arguelles pledged to continue the Revitalized-Pulis Sa Barangay (RPSB) program throughout the region to strengthen local law enforcement. He underscored the need for joint accountability between police and community leaders to ensure public safety.
With national defense duties resting on the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Arguelles emphasized that the police will continue to lead in maintaining internal peace and security.
Arguelles was confident in his personnel’s integrity and the Davao community’s resilience.
Arguelles formally assumed his post during the change of command ceremony held on June 23 at Camp Sgt. Quintin Merecido in Buhangin District, Davao City, succeeding Police Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete.
