BY: PCOL LAMBERT A SUERTE
In the annals of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the stories of dedicated officers stand as testaments to the institution’s commitment to safeguarding communities. These narratives illustrate the sacrifices, innovations, and unwavering resolve of individuals who have chosen to serve the nation, even in the face of adversity.
Police Executive Master Sergeant Rogelio A Rodriguez, Jr.: The Stern Protector
Known for his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, Police Executive Master Sergeant Rogelio A Rodriguez, Jr. epitomizes integrity and dedication. Often described as “malupit” (stern), PEMS Rodriguez has spent 23 years ensuring justice is served without fear or favor.
Growing up in Tondo, Manila, Rodriguez was inspired early on to protect communities from crime. His career began in 1998 as a rookie in the Regional Intelligence Special Operations Office of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), where he honed his investigative skills. His breakthrough came in 2001, when he led a high- stakes operation to arrest an international terrorist plotting to bomb the Vietnamese embassy in Manila. This mission, marked by meticulous intelligence work, averted a major tragedy and solidified his reputation as a skilled operative.
In 2003, Rodriguez joined the PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Force, where his expertise in intelligence gathering dismantled drug laboratories and led to the seizure of dangerous drugs worth PHP 12.7 billion— the largest in Philippine history. His published works on drug syndicate operations remain a valuable resource for law enforcement agencies.
Rodriguez’s dedication extended beyond high- profile cases. In 2006, he conducted seminars to combat a surge in carnapping incidents in Quezon City, reducing cases by 28% within a year. During the pandemic in 2021, he played a vital role in addressing food security issues, devising innovative methods to counter agricultural smuggling. For Rodriguez, every arrest represents not just justice but the prevention of future crimes, a belief that fuels his relentless pursuit of duty.
Police Captain Rosalino E Panlaqui: The People’s Cop
For Police Captain Rosalino E Panlaqui, policing is about building trust and fostering community engagement. Despite never dreaming of becoming a police officer, Panlaqui has spent 16 years transforming public perceptions of law enforcement.
As Chief of Police in Noveleta, Cavite, Panlaqui launched the “Mata sa Bangketa” program, empowering street vendors and workers to act as the “eyes” of the community. This initiative led to the arrest of notorious criminals and restored a sense of security among residents. When Panlaqui became Chief of Police in Jalajala,
Rizal, in 2020, he immediately introduced proactive measures to address the pandemic. His COVID-19 Response Patrol enforced health protocols through 24/7 information drives, earning Jalajala the distinction of having the lowest infection rates in Rizal. He also implemented portable barriers and strict checkpoint protocols, ensuring his officers’ safety while on duty.
Beyond enforcement, Panlaqui focused on community welfare. His “Pandesal at Kape Handog ni Hepe” program allowed early-morning workers to connect with police officers over bread and coffee, humanizing the force. He also spearheaded the “Foster a Child” scholarship program for underprivileged children and introduced livelihood training for Persons Under Police Custody (PUPC), helping them build a better future.
Recognized for his innovations, Panlaqui was named Pulis Magiting and Outstanding Junior Officer for Community Relations in 2022. Through his programs, he has redefined what it means to serve as a “people’s cop.”
Police Colonel Lambert A Suerte: The Compassionate Leader
With 27 years of service, Police Colonel Lambert A Suerte embodies the balance between law enforcement and compassion. From leading combat operations to initiating community programs, his career is marked by resilience and a commitment to uplift others.
Suerte’s notable achievements include leading negotiations with communist rebels in CALABARZON and NCR in 2020, resulting in over a hundred surrenders. He also played a critical role in the 2017 Marawi siege as the commanding officer of the Rapid Deployment Battalion under the PNP Special Action Force (SAF). His leadership ensured all 108 personnel returned home safely after the conflict, earning him recognition from then-President Rodrigo Duterte.
A proud Ibaloi native, Suerte has leveraged his grassroots background to connect with marginalized communities. His “Gulong ng Suerte” project, launched in 2019, has provided over 180 wheelchairs to persons with disabilities across the Philippines. In 2020, he introduced Project D.A.N.A.O., which offers free education to out-of- school youths at risk of insurgent recruitment.
As the current commander of the NCRPO’s Regional Mobile Force Battalion, Suerte’s Adopt-a-Community program has empowered residents of impoverished areas through livelihood training and basic services. His efforts have not only improved living conditions but also restored public trust in the police.
A Legacy of Service
These three officers—PEMS Rogelio A Rodriguez, Jr., PCPT Rosalino E Panlaqui, and PCOL Lambert A Suerte—represent the diverse ways the PNP serves the Filipino people. From high-stakes operations and community programs to grassroots initiatives, their stories highlight the dedication and compassion that define true public service.
Through their efforts, they have not only upheld the law but also touched lives, proving that policing is as much about building communities as it is about enforcing justice. Their legacies inspire a future of service that puts the needs of the people at its core.