In a formal ceremony witnessed by Philippine National Police Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Police Brigadier General Arnold Evangelista Abad officially took over the leadership of Police Regional Office 7 on April 15, 2026, at Camp Sergio Osmeña. This transition marks a significant change in the region's law enforcement command, with Brigadier General Redrico Maranan being relieved of his duties to assume a new role as chief of the Philippine National Police Academy.
A Legacy of Accomplishment
During his tenure of one year and three months overseeing Central Visayas, General Maranan highlighted numerous achievements under his leadership. Key successes included ensuring zero crime incidents during the 2025 Midterm Elections and the Sinulog Festival, alongside a nearly 30 percent reduction in eight focus crimes compared to 2024. The region also recorded an impressive 99.80 percent conviction rate in all illegal drug cases.
Operational Milestones
Under Maranan's command, PRO 7 executed over 1,000 operations that seized drugs valued at more than P1 billion. In terms of wanted persons, over 8,000 individuals were apprehended, including 1,000 classified as Most Wanted. The recovery efforts were substantial, with 4,010 loose firearms, 120 explosives, and nearly 10,000 rounds of ammunition confiscated.
Additionally, the crackdown on illegal gambling involved more than 3,000 operations and the arrest of almost 6,000 gamblers. In addressing gun-for-hire groups, 19 syndicates were neutralized, resulting in 50 members killed in operations and over 100 firearms recovered. Search, rescue, and retrieval operations during natural disasters, such as the strong earthquake in Bogo City and regional floods, were conducted without any looting incidents.
Recognition and Challenges Ahead
PNP Chief Nartatez praised Maranan for PRO 7's high scores in election security and campaigns against smuggling of cigarettes, oil, and other goods. In his farewell address, Maranan urged the Central Visayas police force to extend the same support and cooperation to the new regional director, emphasizing the need to surpass previous efforts.
General Abad acknowledged the significant challenge of maintaining and potentially exceeding Maranan's record but expressed confidence in continuing the region's peace with the help of PRO 7 personnel. He committed to upholding law and order in Central Visayas.
Post-Ceremony Developments
Following the turnover ceremony, new offices at PRO 7 were inaugurated, along with a renovated firing range within the camp. These upgrades aim to enhance operational capabilities and training for police personnel in the region.
