THE Philippine National Police (PNP) formalized a major leadership transition on August 31, 2026, as several key units welcomed new commanders during a Joint Turnover and Assumption of Offices Ceremony at Camp BGen. Crame.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. presided over the rites at the Star Officer’s Lounge, where Police Brigadier General Joyce Patrick B. Sangalang was officially installed as the Acting Director of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG).
Sangalang succeeds Police Brigadier General Rommel S. Batangan, who has been tapped to lead the PNP Maritime Group.
Following the formal transition, Sangalang was honored with an arrival ceremony at the HPG Headquarters, where he immediately engaged with division chiefs and regional heads via virtual conference.
In his inaugural address, Sangalang called for unwavering professionalism and unity, urging HPG personnel to maintain a disciplined commitment to public service and road safety.
The reshuffle extended to other critical departments.
Police Brigadier General Francisco B. Ebreo assumed the role of Acting Director of the PNP Training Service, while Police Colonel Roel L. Lami-ing was named Officer-in-Charge of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group.
Outgoing HPG Director PBGen. Batangan expressed his gratitude to the unit for their support during his tenure, offering parting guidance to the officers he leaves behind.
The HPG, in a statement, lauded Batangan’s “exemplary service” and expressed full confidence in Sangalang’s vision to advance traffic law enforcement with integrity.
