Aquino names Bartolome new PNP chief

Police Deputy General Nicanor Bartolome. Danica Hermogenes/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—President Benigno Aquino has appointed Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Nicanor Bartolome as the next PNP chief, an official said Thursday.

Bartolome will replace Director General Raul Bacalzo, who retires Friday, a week ahead of his 56th birthday, said PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr.

The police force welcomed the appointment of Bartolome, Cruz said.

He said Bartolome could lead the PNP well with his “qualities, experience and scholastic records.”

At the same time, Cruz expressed confidence the incoming PNP chief would continue the reforms in the PNP.

“We are more than confident that he will continue reforms for the police,” he said.