March 01, 2025
As the nation celebrates Women’s Month this March, Iligan City Representative and former police officer Congressman Celso Gomera Regencia lauds the significant strides made by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in promoting gender equality, as more female police officers assume key command positions nationwide.
Citing the recent statement of PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, Congressman Regencia expressed his support for the growing representation of women in law enforcement, describing it as a milestone that reflects the PNP’s commitment to inclusivity and professional excellence.
“As someone who once served in the ranks of the PNP, I understand the challenges and responsibilities that come with wearing the uniform,” said Regencia. “The rise of female police officers in leadership roles is not just a victory for gender equality—it is a testament to their competence, dedication, and courage.”
According to Gen. Marbil, women now comprise 20 percent of the police force, totaling 42,757 female personnel serving in various capacities across the country. Notably, 151 female officers hold key command and operational positions, including:
- Police Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, the first female PNP spokesperson and now the Regional Director of Police Regional Office 3 in Central Luzon.
- Police Brig. Gen. Jezebel D. Medina, head of the PNP Health Service.
- Police Brig. Gen. Portia Manalad, chief of the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC).
- Police Brig. Gen. Maria Leonora Camarao, Regional Director of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) in the National Capital Region.
- Police Col. Vina Guzman, PNP Academy Commandant of Cadets, poised for promotion to Brigadier General.
In addition, women now lead police offices in major urban and provincial jurisdictions, such as Makati City, Mandaluyong City, and Zamboanga City under the leadership of Police Col. Kimberly Molitas.
Congressman Regencia, who served Iligan City as a dedicated law enforcer before entering public service, highlighted the importance of fostering equal opportunities for women within the PNP. He expressed strong
support for the pending bill in the House of Representatives, which seeks to increase the annual recruitment quota for female officers from 10 percent to at least 20 percent.
“I fully support legislative measures that promote gender equality in our police force,” Regencia stated. “Women have always been instrumental in ensuring peace and order in our communities. It is only right that we provide them with the opportunities they deserve to lead and protect our nation.”
As the country honors the invaluable contributions of women in various fields during Women’s Month, Congressman Regencia underscored the critical role female police officers play in law enforcement, public safety, and community development.
“This Women’s Month, we recognize the bravery, commitment, and leadership of our female police officers,” Regencia stated. “They are not just enforcers of the law but also pillars of strength in our communities. Their presence in leadership positions affirms that women belong in every space, including law enforcement.”
As a lawmaker, Regencia remains committed to supporting initiatives that advance women’s empowerment, promote equal career opportunities, and ensure comprehensive leadership training for female officers in law enforcement.
“The PNP’s success should always be measured by excellence, not gender,” he added. “The achievements of our female officers inspire a new generation of leaders, and I am proud to stand with them as a former police officer and as their representative in Congress.”
