Rafael Calinisan named Napolcom vice chairperson, executive officer

Atty. Rafael Vicente Calinisan speaks during a briefing on Thursday, March 23, 2023, in Quezon City.  (File photo from NOY MORCOSO / INQUIRER.net)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Atty. Rafael Vicente Calinisan as vice chairperson and executive officer of the National Police Commission (Napolcom).

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed this in a Viber message to reporters on Tuesday.

Bersamin noted that the designation did not violate the appointment ban implemented in line with the upcoming midterm elections, as it was only an “internal movement.”

In a statement, Calisan vowed that Napolcom will continue to listen to and respond to public concerns, upholding transparency, accountability, social justice and effective service.

“I will listen to all of you and we will move as a collective whole,” he said in a Facebook post.

“Our Napolcom will be a proactive Napolcom, receptive to the needs of the PNP [Philippine National Police] and the people, and to our own employees,” he added.

Calinisan also described his designation as a significant milestone in his career.

He vowed to serve with “dignity and integrity” in promoting public interest.

“As the Napolcom exercises administrative control and operational supervision over the Philippine National Police under the Constitution, I promise to perform my functions to the best of my ability,” he said.

“Much is at stake,” he emphasized.

“To our dedicated men and women in uniform, I assure you that your morale and welfare will remain at the heart of our mission,” he told the Napolcom personnel.

“We will continue to nurture professionalism, integrity and excellence within our ranks,” he concluded.

In a Facebook post, Napolcom, for its part, congratulated Calinisan and welcomed his appointment.