DAY 1- Cadet Attachment Program: Origins

UNANG ARAW- My first photo opportunity with PLTCOL DENNIS B BALLA, Chief of Police, Legazpi City Police Station, during the Courtesy Call of PNPA Cadets in preparation for the Cadet Attachment Program last January 14, 2023.

First meeting.

Today marks the beginning of our Cadet Attachment Program and is my first day at Legazpi City Police Station, where I am assigned. Just like any beginnings, I am excited but nervous at the same time. In the few minutes that I entered his room, I immediately witnessed the gleeful eyes of a brother who was excited for his underclass. He did not say it directly but I indeed felt it at that instance. After the pleasantries, he oriented me about the different PNP sections in his Area of Responsibility (AOR), the population covered by his station, crime incidents, and a few pointers to finish my CAP effectively. I have felt his true concern from the things that he had said to me. Before my deployment at Legazpi City Police Station, I had already heard good things about PLTCOL DENNIS B BALLA. After meeting him personally, I can attest that my expectations vs. the reality of his personality are similar to what I have heard. I admire PLTCOL BALLA for his simplicity despite his accomplishments. A man of few words, yet embodied wisdom and perseverance to lead the community.

Wisdom.

Since time is always of the essence, the time I had with the Chief of Police was minimal, but still, he had shared well enough to encourage me and fuel my days to come in the police station. If one may ask, a Lakan refers to graduates of the PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE ACADEMY (1). He even offered me free lodging, accommodation, and meals. Maybe this is his way of showing us (cadets) that our brothers outside the portals look after us and is conscious of our welfare.

“Upang maging maayos kang opisyal, dapat marunong kang makibagay at magaling ka makipag kapwa tao”

PLTCOL DENNIS B BALLA

He then accompanied me to the Women and Children Protection Desk headed by PCMS Perla M Dela Cruz. The unit is composed of very welcoming people. A conducive and friendly environment will not only be pleasant for the eyes but also promote a caring and safe environment. As we all know, victims may come from different age groups, sectors, and backgrounds, and having a welcoming atmosphere will surely help these victims.

The first task assigned to me was to visit the different sections and chart with their nit head for familiarization and courtesy. The task's primary goal is to inform them of my station immersion. My visit will help them to formulate plans and programs to serve as my guide in performing my upcoming duty at the police station.

I am glad that I had a conversation with the Head of Offices. They never hesitate to share their experiences and learnings in their career. Accordingly, they uttered that as a young officer, I need to be flexible and prepared for any task or designation that may come my way. Also, they said that on the outside, there is no one to rely on but you alone.

(From left) PCMS Sybil T Aspera, PCMS Perla M Dela Cruz, P/CDT GERLYN MAE L MELITON, PSSg Raquel M Nacor and PCpl Fatima T Paminiano and PCpl Ailyn A Dagta