New NBI Central Visayas Director Assumes Leadership Role in Cebu
Attorney Jose Ermie Monsanto has officially taken his oath as the new Regional Director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Central Visayas. The formal assumption of duties occurred on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, marking a significant leadership transition for the region's premier investigative agency.
Background and Experience of the New Director
Monsanto brings a robust professional background to his new position, holding dual qualifications as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a lawyer. He is a proud alumnus of the University of San Carlos (USC), which has prepared him for this critical role. His career with the NBI began decades ago, starting as an Agent I in the Investigation Office in Cebu back in 1991 when he was just 28 years old.
Prior to his reassignment to Central Visayas, Monsanto served as the Regional Director in Zamboanga, gaining valuable experience in managing regional operations. This return to Cebu represents a homecoming of sorts, allowing him to leverage his deep familiarity with the area and its challenges.
Proactive Service Approach and Operational Priorities
In his inaugural address, Director Monsanto emphasized a shift toward a more proactive style of service. He declared that under his leadership, the NBI Central Visayas office will no longer wait for complaints to arrive but will actively seek out ways to address and resolve issues affecting the community. This forward-thinking strategy aims to enhance the agency's effectiveness and responsiveness.
Monsanto also underscored the importance of integrity in all investigations conducted by his team. He stressed that maintaining high ethical standards is paramount to ensuring public trust and achieving justice. Additionally, he highlighted several key operational priorities:
- Streamlined NBI Clearance Processing: Improving the efficiency and accessibility of obtaining NBI clearances for the public.
- Expedited Flood Control Project Investigations: Following directives from NBI headquarters to accelerate investigations into flood control projects, ensuring timely accountability.
- Enhanced Personnel Performance: Instructing all personnel to provide fast and proper service, with a focus on professionalism and diligence.
Leadership and Oversight Commitments
Director Monsanto has committed to placing all agents and personnel under his leadership under strict observation and scrutiny. This move is designed to foster a culture of accountability and excellence within the NBI Central Visayas. By closely monitoring operations, he aims to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the agency meets its mandate effectively.
His leadership philosophy centers on proactive problem-solving, integrity-driven investigations, and efficient public service. As he steps into this role, the community watches with anticipation for the positive changes his tenure may bring to law enforcement and security in Central Visayas.
