Duterte names Danao PNP OIC ahead of polls

President Rodrigo Duterte has designated Police Lieutenant General Vicente Danao Jr. as officer-in-charge of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Danao will concurrently hold this position with his role as chief of the PNP Directorial Staff.

He succeeds Police General Dionardo Carlos, who is set to retire on May 8, 2022.

Acting presidential spokesperson Martin Andanar expressed confidence that Danao will continue efforts to transform the PNP into a more dynamic and professional organization.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año emphasized the importance of Danao's appointment, as his leadership begins just before the May 9 elections.

Danao's first order of the day as PNP OIC is to ensure all security preparations are in place and police units are mobilized and on alert for peaceful, orderly, and honest elections.

As commander of the National Security Task Force on National and Local Elections, Danao has been involved in the planning and security preparations for the polls.