BY NYARIKA DOMANAIS
ILOILO City – In recognition of his exemplary service, Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) director Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica was declared an “adopted son” of Iloilo City.
The declaration was made official through Executive Order No. 106, signed by Mayor Jerry Treñas, during a press conference on Monday morning.
A native of Mansilingan, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Coronica earned numerous accolades from the Philippine National Police (PNP) throughout his career, including Medalya ng Kadakilaan, Medalya ng Kagalingan, and Medalya ng Kasanayan among others.
Under his leadership since January 27, 2023, the ICPO has made significant strides in law enforcement. The police force seized P129.5 million worth of illegal drugs, apprehended 867 drug-related suspects across 561 operations, and arrested 689 wanted individuals, including 126 of the city’s most wanted.
Additionally, 583 individuals have been taken into custody for illegal gambling, and numerous illegal firearms and explosives have been confiscated.
Coronica’s tenure also saw the inauguration of four new police stations, enhancing police visibility and service to around 143,000 city residents.
“In my 14 years as mayor, Colonel Coronica is the only city director I have honored as ‘adopted son’. His dedication is unparalleled, and notably, he has demonstrated that effective drug enforcement can occur without fatalities. I am extremely pleased with his performance,” said Mayor Treñas.
The mayor also expressed hope that Coronica’s successor would emulate his achievements.
“I hope that whoever takes over will try to approximate what Colonel Coronica has accomplished for Iloilo City; he has big shoes to fill but whoever will take over has my full support,” said Treñas.
In response, Coronica expressed deep gratitude for the mayor’s trust.
“I will treasure this forever and I am very thankful for the support that the city mayor has given me,” Coronica said./PN
