New HPG chief to lead wang-wang drive

MANILA, Philippines - Chief Superintendent Leonardo Espina is the new director of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG).

Philippine National Police chief Director General Jesus Verzosa named his former spokesman in place of Chief Superintendent Orlando Mabutas, who was appointed Ilocos Region police commander.

Espina said his first marching order to highway patrolmen is to implement the government’s no wang-wang policy.

“I would like to prod all HPG personnel to continue on with President Aquino’s directive to account for all blinkers and sirens implementing (Presidential Decree) 96 without fear or favor,” he said.

“Initially, I shall focus on seven major programs dealing with personnel on discipline, actuation and morale, our operational systems in coordination with the different regional and provincial directors.”

Espina said he will also address anti-carnapping, anti-hijacking, road safety and develop a database on violators of PD 96 in coordination with the Land Transportation Office.

He will also intensify the no plate, no travel policy, more visibility in the highways and major thoroughfares, he added.

Espina said he will deploy more patrol cars in the regions and provinces, and acquire better facilities for HPG offices.

Espina said he will discuss the matter with all regional HPG chiefs and staff officers on Monday in a command conference.

“I shall also see to it that these major programs are well in accord with the very intent of our Integrated Transformation Program coupled with the PNP’s unwavering stance on human rights and President Aquino’s directives,” he said.

Espina was first assigned to the HPG as a captain in the Philippine Constabulary in 1989.