DIRECTOR General Raul M. Bacalzo turned 55 years old and begins his tour of duty as the 16th Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief.

Prior to his promotion, General Bacalzo, a lawyer and a seasoned investigator, was the number three man of the PNP in charge of police operations and head of the PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Task Force (AIDSTF).

A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1977, General Bacalzo is credited with revising the PNP Criminal Investigation Manual to firm up procedures in resolving cases involving violence committed against journalists, activists, and government officials. He worked to improve police investigation by enhancing the capability of the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), a fast and accurate way of identifying lawbreakers through their fingerprints.

General Bacalzo, who hails from Batangas, took an Infantry Advance Course at the United States Army Infantry School and a Major Case Management Course at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Academy in Virginia, United States of America. Most of General Bacalzo’s past assignments were in the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM).

He also holds a doctorate from the Bicol University and a master’s degree from the Manuel Luis Quezon University. He is also a recipient of several service and accomplishments awards, including more than 120 medals, two Philippine Legion of Honor awards, and two Bronze Cross Medal for combat excellence.

We wish Director General Jesus A. Verzosa all the best for his selfless service to the country and for retiring before his time to allow the best and bright officers of the PNP the chance to serve the country well – the way he did.

We congratulate the new Philippine National Police Chief, Director-General Raul M. Bacalzo, on his appointment and wish him all the best and success in all his endeavors.