Area Police Command (APC) Western Mindanao head Police Lieutenant General Bernard Banac has been appointed as the Philippine National Police’s deputy chief for administration, becoming the second highest-ranking police official after PNP chief Police General Nicolas Torre III.

According to an August 5 order confirmed by the PNP public information office, Banac will assume the position on Wednesday.

Banac has swapped roles with Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., who is now the APC Western Mindanao commander.

A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1992, Banac joined the Special Action Force (SAF) after graduation and later served as Aide to the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government from 1996 to 1998.

In 2012, he was honored as one of the Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service (COPS) by the Metrobank Foundation.

Banac was appointed as the Provincial Director of Sorsogon province in 2014 and later joined the Directorate for Operations as Chief of the Internal Security Operations Division.

From 2019 to 2020, he served as the PNP spokesperson and Public Information Office chief.

Philippine National Police

The **Philippine National Police (PNP)** is the national police force of the Philippines, established in 1991 under Republic Act 6975, replacing the former Philippine Constabulary and Integrated National Police. It operates under the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and is responsible for law enforcement, public safety, and crime prevention nationwide. The PNP traces its roots back to early Spanish colonial-era militias and has evolved through various reorganizations, including American and post-independence reforms.

Philippine Military Academy

The **Philippine Military Academy (PMA)** is the premier military institution in the Philippines, established in 1898 in Malolos, Bulacan, and later relocated to Baguio City in 1908. Modeled after the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, it trains future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with a focus on leadership, discipline, and national service. Known for its rigorous curriculum and the iconic “Spartan” graduation rites, the PMA has produced many of the country’s top military leaders.

Special Action Force

The **Special Action Force (SAF)** is the elite counter-terrorism unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP), established in 1983 to combat high-risk threats, including insurgency and hostage situations. Modeled after international special forces, it has played key roles in major operations, such as the 2017 Marawi siege against ISIS-linked militants. Known for rigorous training and bravery, the SAF remains a critical force in maintaining national security.

Metrobank Foundation

The Metrobank Foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank) in the Philippines, established in 1979. It focuses on education, healthcare, and the arts, offering scholarships, teacher awards, and community development programs. Over the years, it has become a key supporter of excellence and social progress in the Philippines.

Sorsogon province

Sorsogon province, located in the Bicol Region of the Philippines, is known for its stunning natural attractions, including Bulusan Volcano and pristine beaches like Subic and Rizal. Historically, it was a significant trading hub during the Spanish colonial era and played a role in the galleon trade. Today, it is also celebrated for its whale shark (butanding) interactions and vibrant local festivals, such as the Kasanggayahan Festival, which honors its cultural heritage.

Directorate for Operations

The **Directorate for Operations (DO)** is a key division within the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), responsible for covert operations, intelligence collection, and clandestine activities abroad. Established during the early years of the Cold War, it evolved from the CIA’s Office of Special Operations (OSO) and has played a central role in espionage, counterterrorism, and foreign intelligence-gathering. The DO operates globally, often under deep cover, to support national security objectives.

Internal Security Operations Division

The **Internal Security Operations Division (ISOD)** is a specialized unit within certain national security or law enforcement agencies, typically focused on counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, and domestic security threats. Historically, such divisions have been active in countries facing internal conflicts, such as the Philippines, where the ISOD played a role in combating communist and separatist insurgencies. These units often operate with broad authority but have faced criticism over human rights concerns.

Public Information Office

The Public Information Office (PIO) is a government or organizational department responsible for disseminating official news, updates, and communications to the public. Historically, such offices emerged in the early 20th century as governments recognized the need for structured public outreach, transparency, and media relations. Today, PIOs play a key role in crisis management, public education, and maintaining trust between institutions and citizens.