PNP chief open to more women in key posts

MANILA, Philippines — Saying that he is for equality, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Benjamin Acorda Jr. said he is open to appointing more policewomen in key posts in their organization.

Acorda said he is always looking at the performance and capabilities of police officers in deciding who to promote and where to assign them.

When asked if he is open to designating female police officers in higher posts such as regional directors or district directors, Acorda said he is all for gender equality.

“So, regardless if it’s a man or woman, what’s important is their ability and capability,” Acorda told reporters in a mix of Filipino and English on the sidelines of his inspection of transportation hubs on Friday.

During his term, Acorda elevated Col. Jean Fajardo as chief of the PNP’s Public Information Office, making her the first woman to hold the post.

It was also during Acorda’s term that the Philippine National Police Academy produced its first female general in Women and Children Protection Center chief Portia Manalad.

There are other female police officers who are currently assigned as chiefs of territorial police units, as well as spokespersons for regional and provincial offices.