Police Col. Peter Madria has formally assumed his post as the new chief of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), two months after his initial assumption was delayed when the turnover ceremony was called off.

Madria replaced Col. Mannan Muarip who served as acting DCPO director for eight months.

According to the Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-11), the appointment came after Mayor Sebastian Duterte picked Madria from a shortlist of five recommended officials.

Muarip expressed his gratitude to the city government, partner agencies, DCPO personnel, and the Davaoeños for their support during his tenure.

“I have personally witnessed how governance is done in Davao City, it’s deeply rooted in cooperation and shared responsibility. Masaya po ako na personal kong na experience kung paano po ang Davao City when it comes to practicing the culture of security and cooperation among all agencies,” Muarip said.

Meanwhile, Madria served as chief of the Regional Operations Division of PRO-11 prior to his new post.

As the new DCPO chief, Madria said he will focus on enhanced managing police operations, where 90 percent of personnel will be deployed on the ground, strengthening resource management, boosting personnel morale and welfare, enforcing integrity monitoring and internal cleansing, and improving coordination with the community.

“As I assumed this command, I do so with a clear vision. One that is fully aligned with the PNP focus agenda. Our mission is to ensure that the police service is mabilis, tapat at tunay na nararamdaman,” Madria said.

Duterte, through his representative, commended Muarip for his exemplary performance and challenged Madria to sustain the DCPO’s best practices and uphold its legacy in protecting the welfare of Davaoeńos.

Despite the change in leadership, DCPO reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and order in the city.

“I want all personnel to be on the ground with their commanders leading the personnel,” PRO-11 Director, Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete, said.