Over the years, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has maintained a long-standing tradition of contributing to United Nations peacekeeping missions. Every year, Filipino police officers proudly serve with honor in various UN operations worldwide, often in challenging conflict zones where they risk their lives to protect vulnerable communities and uphold the organization’s core principles–to serve and protect.
This year, 19 equally competent personnel are set to serve as Individual Police Officers (IPOs) in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), as part of the country’s contingent. The send-off ceremony, presided over by Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, PNP Chief, was held on August 12, 2025, at the Bulwagang Lapulapu in Camp BGen Rafael T Crame, Quezon City. This deployment reflects the PNP’s steadfast support for international peacekeeping and its dedication in contributing to global security initiatives.
The 19 Filipino UN peacekeepers are composed of 12 Police Commissioned Officers, namely: PLtCol Mark Kim B. Aquino of Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11), PLtCol Elea S. Bartolome of PNP Recruitment Selection Service (PRSS), PLTCol Maximo M. Beleo of PRO 8, PLtCol Swanerrie Sangshell T. Cotay of Legal Service (LS), PLtCol Richard C. Villanueva of the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR), PMaj Cynthia C. Dela Cruz of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), PMaj Ronel A. Royo of PRO 7, PMaj Dan Evert N. Sokoken Jr. of PRO CAR, PMaj Rhea Sarah A. Villanueva of PRO 6, PCpt Nomer B. Macaraig of Police Community Affairs and Development Group (PCADG), and PCpt Lizl M. Quiray of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Canine (K9) Group; together with seven Police Non-Commissioned Officers, namely: PEMS Sonia A. Corpuz of the Directorate for Plans (DPL), PEMS Maripaz B. Delmendo of DPL, PEMS Roderick B. Kabigting of EOD/K9, PCMS Florence B. Ramos of PRO 3, PSMS Dulce D. Serrano of PRO 12, PMSg Phoebe Kates M. Rosal of PNP Retirement and Benefits Administration Service (PRBS), and PSSg Adrenella G. Domiquel of PRO 4A.
These contingents will render a 12-month service, ensuring the welfare, safety, and security of both the locals and their fellow peacekeepers in South Sudan.
The ceremony also featured an awarding of Medalya ng Kasanayan to another group of 19 PNP contingents who successfully completed their overseas deployment in 2024. These returning officers were recognized for their courage, professionalism, and exemplary service while working alongside international counterparts to help achieve the UNMISS objectives despite the cultural differences and other challenges experienced in South Sudan.
The significant event stood as both a proud farewell for those embarking on their mission and a fitting tribute for those who have returned after serving with distinction. It reaffirmed the PNP’s dedication to service, international solidarity, and global peacekeeping, demonstrating the invaluable role of Filipino police officers in fostering peace, security, and stability across borders.
