BY: PMAJ Mae Ann R Cunanan
PMAJ Mae Ann R. Cunanan: A Champion for Integrity and Ethical Leadership
For over 15 years, PMAJ Mae Ann R. Cunanan has stood as a symbol of unwavering integrity within the Philippine National Police. In an environment where corruption can go unnoticed and unchecked, she has fought tirelessly to bring transparency and ethical leadership to law enforcement. As one of the pioneering members of the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG), PMAJ Cunanan has worked to eradicate misconduct from within the police force, holding her colleagues accountable and ensuring that the values of honesty and justice are upheld. Under her guidance, IMEG has grown into a specialized task force that investigates corruption and does so with a level of autonomy and proactivity that ensures thorough and impartial results. By working collaboratively with government agencies, civil society organizations, and the general public, PMAJ Cunanan has created a united front against corruption. This comprehensive approach has allowed IMEG to handle police misconduct cases with the full support of various sectors, increasing public confidence in the police force.
PMAJ Cunanan’s commitment to integrity goes beyond her professional role. In one of her most courageous acts, she led a daring rescue operation that saved seven victims of human trafficking. Putting her life at risk, she orchestrated the operation with precision and dedication, clearly conveying that the forces of good would always stand against injustice. Her actions saved lives and highlighted the importance of bravery and selflessness in public service.
Another defining aspect of PMAJ Cunanan’s career is her advocacy for the LGBT community. As a leader in the Police Community Relations Section, she worked alongside LGBT volunteers to foster an environment of trust and inclusivity within the police force. By bridging the gap between law enforcement and the LGBT community, she demonstrated that the police force is a space for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Her work has sent a powerful message of acceptance, showing that law enforcement values diversity and welcomes participation from all segments of society.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, PMAJ Cunanan’s academic achievements reflect her commitment to personal growth and leadership development. With degrees in Public Safety, Criminology, and advanced degrees in Development Management and Criminal Justice Education, she is a role model for aspiring officers who seek to lead with intellect and integrity. Through her tireless efforts, PMAJ Cunanan has proven that a law enforcement officer’s true duty is to uphold the law and serve as a beacon of righteousness and fairness.
PCMS Dennis D. Bendo: A Mentor Who Transforms Lives
In the bustling streets of Manila, where crime and poverty often cast a long shadow, Police Chief Master Sergeant Dennis D. Bendo has made it his mission to offer a different path for the city’s most vulnerable: the marginalized youth. With nearly two decades of service in the PNP, PCMS Bendo’s journey has been marked by his deep commitment to community policing and youth mentorship.
Upon joining the police force, PCMS Bendo quickly recognized that law enforcement alone could not solve the systemic problems that plagued Manila’s poor neighborhoods. To break the cycle of crime, he knew that the focus needed to be on providing opportunities, guidance, and support to the out-of-school youth and children in conflict with the law (CICL). His approach was not merely reactive but proactive—he became a mentor to these young individuals, earning their trust and helping them envision a future beyond crime and violence.
One of PCMS Bendo’s most notable initiatives is the “Ang Guro kong Pulis Mobile Library” program, launched in 2018. This innovative project brought educational resources directly to the streets, offering non-formal education and outreach activities to street children and CICL in areas like Luneta Park, Baywalk, and Roxas Boulevard. Through storytelling, mentorship, and educational activities, PCMS Bendo sparked hope in these young lives, showing them that education could offer a way out of their difficult circumstances.
However, PCMS Bendo’s dedication to education did not stop there. In 2019, he spearheaded the “MPD Alternative Learning System” (ALS) in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd), providing formal education to individuals whom the traditional education system had left behind. This program, which spans two years, offers a comprehensive curriculum covering subjects such as Math, Science, English, and Social Studies while providing life skills training and character development. The program’s holistic approach ensures that these young learners are educated and equipped to lead better, more fulfilling lives.
In addition to his work in education, PCMS Bendo has been a strong advocate for community development. Through the “Adopt a Community Program” and the “Kauswagan sa Komunidad Program,” he has provided medical assistance, livelihood support, and essential services to indigent communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. His efforts have helped to uplift these communities, giving them the tools they need to become self-sufficient and resilient in the face of adversity. PCMS Bendo’s work in promoting food security through the “Gulayan sa Pamayanan Project” is another example of his commitment to improving the lives of others. By teaching sustainable agriculture practices and encouraging communities to transform available spaces into productive gardens, PCMS Bendo has empowered local residents to grow their food, reducing their reliance on outside resources and improving their economic independence.
PCOL Renell R. Sabaldica: Redefining Public Safety Through Innovation and Community Engagement
With 26 years of service in the PNP, Police Colonel Renell R. Sabaldica is a seasoned leader whose innovative strategies have impacted public safety, particularly in the province of Cagayan. As the Provincial Director of the Cagayan Police Provincial Office, PCOL Sabaldica has transformed the region from a troubled area plagued by crime into a model of peace and stability.
Under PCOL Sabaldica’s leadership, Cagayan experienced a dramatic crime reduction, with the total crime volume decreasing by 47.4% from 2021 to 2022. One of his most remarkable achievements was leading the efforts during the 2022 national and local elections, which resulted in zero election-related incidents—a historic first for the province. This success culminated in his relentless focus on crime prevention, community engagement, and proactive policing.
In addition to reducing crime, PCOL Sabaldica has made strides in addressing the root causes of conflict, particularly in rural areas. Through initiatives such as Project ARUGA and the Lingkod Bayanihan Pabahay Projects, he engaged with former rebels and their communities, offering them a chance to reintegrate into society and contribute to the development of their areas. His efforts have directly benefited over 33,000 individuals, providing them with much-needed support and fostering a sense of hope for the future.
PCOL Sabaldica’s leadership goes beyond crime reduction; he has redefined public safety by focusing on the well-being of his officers and the community. As the Chief of the Morale and Welfare Division, he has introduced programs that promote mental health support for police personnel, ensuring they have the resources they need to cope with the emotional toll of their work. His technology and data analytics use has also transformed PNP operations, allowing for more efficient resource allocation and better decision-making.
In his current role, PCOL Sabaldica continues to champion innovative programs such as Project UBE, which supports families caring for children with life-threatening illnesses, and Clean and Green: CPPO Dream, which focuses on environmental sustainability. His initiatives tackle crime and create a holistic, community-oriented approach to public safety that empowers individuals, builds trust and fosters long- term peace and progress.
A Legacy of Service
The stories of PMAJ Mae Ann R Cunanan, PCMS Dennis D Bendo, and PCOL Renell R Sabaldica are powerful reminders that authentic leadership is about more than just holding a title—it’s about creating positive change, empowering others, and leaving a legacy that will endure long after the job is done. By leading with purpose and commitment, they have proven that one person can indeed change the course of many lives—and that the accurate measure of success lies in the lives we touch and the positive change we bring to the world.