The Philippine National Police (PNP) Region IX celebrated its 22nd Founding Anniversary on February 4, 2013 in a simple yet fitting ceremony held at the PNP Regional Office IX Quadrangle at Camp Gen. Romeo A. Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City.

The activity was attended by the key officials of PNP PRO IX headed by Regional Director P/CSUPT. Juanito B. Vaño, Jr. with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, as guest of honor and speaker.

Likewise present during the event were the members of the Command Group, Directorial Staff, Chief of the National Support Units (NSUs), Police Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers and non-uniformed personnel, among others, respectively.

In his keynote speech, Director Abutazil commended PRO IX under the leadership of P/CSUPT. Vaño for the various initiatives undertaken by the PNP in the region to ensure peace and order and promote public safety.

“Being members of the police force entails discipline, dedication, courage and commitment to genuinely serve the community. Mabigat na responsibilidad and nakaatang sa mga balikat ng ating kapulisan sa pagsugpo ng kriminalidad sa lipunan,” Director Abutazil said.

Director Abutazil further said that the job of a police officer is honorable stressing that the obligation and duty to serve and protect is always a priority over other priorities, to the extent of risking their lives all in the name of public service.

Furthermore, RD Abutazil expressed gratitude to the local chief executives of the various local government units in Region IX for continuously supporting the efforts and initiatives of PNP PRO IX to help ensure and maintain peace and order in the LGUs.

RD Abutazil underscored the role of the PNP in ensuring a peaceful and safe  conduct of the May 13, 2013 National and Local Elections.

Moreover, the occasion was likewise highlighted by the awarding of merit medals to Outstanding Police Officers of Region IX.