New Leadership at Philippine National Police Academy Amidst Major Reforms
Brigadier General Red Maranan has been appointed as the new director of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), taking over from Major General Andre Dizon, who has been reassigned to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit (PHAU). This leadership change was announced on Thursday, April 16, 2026, during a ceremony led by Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. Concurrently, Police Brigadier General Arnold Evangelista Abad has assumed command of Police Regional Office 7, succeeding Maranan in that role.
Maranan's Legacy in Central Visayas
During his 15-month tenure as Central Visayas Regional Police Director, Maranan oversaw significant achievements in law enforcement. His leadership was marked by the peaceful management of two Sinulog festivals and the 2025 midterm elections, contributing to regional stability. Under his command, focus crimes in the area decreased by approximately 30 percent, and the police secured an impressive 99.80 percent conviction rate for drug-related cases. From January 2025 to April 2026, the regional force made substantial strides in combating illegal activities, seizing over P1 billion worth of illegal drugs, arresting 8,000 wanted individuals, and dismantling 19 gun-for-hire groups.
PNP Chief Nartatez publicly commended Maranan for his effective efforts in curbing smuggling and oil theft, highlighting his dedication to public safety. As Abad steps into his new role, he acknowledged the high standards set by his predecessor and committed to sustaining the region's peace and order initiatives.
Reassignments Triggered by Hazing Incident
The reassignment of PNPA officials, including Dizon, is directly linked to a recent hazing incident that has shaken the academy. Over 30 PNP cadets were involved, with 22 fourth-class cadets identified as victims. These cadets sustained burns and injuries after being subjected to a harmful mixture of drain cleaner and muriatic acid as punishment, following the resignation of a classmate. In response to this incident, several officials have been moved to the PHAU, including Police Brigadier General Gonzalo Villamor Jr., Colonels Roman dela Cruz Jr. and Julio Gorospe Jr, Majors Mark Anthony Cailing and Anthony de Asis, Chief Master Sergeant Geronimo Reyna, and Staff Master Sergeants Thomas Diaz and Silverio Dolorfino.
Additionally, Police Colonel Frederick Obar from the Directorate of Plans has been reassigned to the PNPA as part of the organizational adjustments. Internal Affairs Service Inspector General Attorney Brigido Dulay confirmed on Wednesday, April 15, that an investigation is underway to examine the lapses and accountability of the relieved officials, particularly focusing on the delayed reporting of the incident to higher authorities.
Nationwide Anti-Hazing Crackdown and Reforms
In a decisive move, PNP Chief Nartatez has ordered a nationwide expansion of the anti-hazing crackdown, extending strict reforms beyond the PNPA to cover all training units across the country. This initiative includes a comprehensive review of training practices and accountability mechanisms within the police force. Nartatez emphasized that these reforms will no longer be limited to the academy but will apply to every stage of police training nationwide, from recruitment to specialized courses.
"We are institutionalizing these reforms. This will be a zero-tolerance standard for all training centers nationwide," Nartatez stated. He further explained that the PNP will focus on uniform implementation and monitoring of anti-hazing policies, with plans for random inspections and stricter accountability for training directors. "Consistency is key. We are strengthening our internal monitoring. In the PNP, brotherhood should never be an excuse for violence," he added, underscoring the commitment to eradicating hazing and fostering a safer training environment.
This restructuring and reform effort aim to restore trust and ensure the integrity of police training programs, marking a significant step towards enhancing professionalism and safety within the Philippine National Police.
