Bacolod City Police Official Relieved, Assigned to Regional Headquarters
In a significant administrative move within the Negros Island Region, Police Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Benitez Jr. has been relieved from his leadership positions in Bacolod City, effective January 20, 2026. This announcement was made by Colonel Joeresty Coronica, the director of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), during a statement on Wednesday, January 21.
Official Order and Transfer Details
According to Colonel Coronica, the relief order was formally signed by Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, the director of the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), on Tuesday. The decision involves Benitez being transferred to the PRO-NIR headquarters, where he is expected to take on a bigger and more substantial role in regional law enforcement operations.
To ensure continuity in the critical functions of the affected units, temporary leadership arrangements have been put in place. Lieutenant Richard Legada, the deputy chief of the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), will temporarily assume Benitez's vacated post there. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Ranie Songaling, the deputy chief of the City Intelligence Unit (CIU), will serve as the officer-in-charge for that unit.
Commendable Performance and Future Plans
Colonel Coronica emphasized that Benitez leaves behind a strong and commendable record during his tenure at the BCPO, which spanned nearly two years as the head of both the CDEU and CIU. He highlighted Benitez's significant accomplishments, particularly in the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs in Bacolod City.
"He delivered a good performance in addressing the illegal drug problem in Bacolod City," Coronica stated, acknowledging the officer's effective contributions to public safety and law enforcement efforts in the urban center.
Looking ahead, Coronica noted that the search for a permanent replacement to lead the CDEU is still underway. This indicates a careful and deliberate process to select an official who can build upon the foundation laid by Benitez and continue the unit's vital work in combating drug-related crimes.
The relief and transfer of Benitez reflect a strategic reshuffling within the police force, aimed at optimizing leadership and enhancing regional coordination in the Negros Island area.
