IN my extensive coverage of the Philippine National Police (PNP) throughout my media career which started in 1989, I have been privy to its evolution, significant successes, and various challenges, including its leadership and diverse programs.
Amidst this dynamic and challenging landscape of law enforcement, I would say a product of PNP Academy ‘Buklod-Diwa’ Class of 2001, Police Lieutenant Colonel Byron Filog Allatog stands out distinctly, just like the many PNPA graduates or ‘Lakans’ everybody knows will be the PNP’s future leaders.
A proud Igorot from Mountain Province, he also happens to be a real ‘future of the Philippine policing’ with his unparalleled commitment, intelligence and determination distinguishing him as a true leader in the field, continuously evolving and excelling with his visionary approach in modern police work.
I first came to know Allatog when he became one of the 17 PNP officers honored with “The Lead PNP Award: The Transformational Leadership Award for Chief of Police/Station Commander’ on January 29, 2010 by then PNP chief, General Jesus A. Verzosa.
Allatog, then the chief of the Bongao Municipal Police Station in Tawi-Tawi was cited for his notable work in transforming the station into a community-oriented unit, effectively bringing police services to the frontline and enhancing community engagement.
Engaging him revealed how crucial his early life was in shaping his outlook and ambitions. His educational journey is marked by a series of scholarships that underscore his academic dedication.
During his early education in Bontoc he attended Saint Vincent’s Elementary School where he was a scholar of the Assisi Development Foundation. He was also a government scholar at the Mountain Province General Comprehensive High School.
After finishing high school, he went straight to the PNP Academy graduating in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety degree.
However, his academic journey didn’t stop there. In 2016, he was selected for a course at the Federal Bureau of Investigation or FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, sponsored fully by the United States government.
Recently, he accomplished a significant academic feat by completing his Masters in National Security Policy at the Australian National University (ANU), as a full scholar of the Australian Government.
He holds the distinction of being the first officer from the PNP to graduate from the prestigious National Security College (NSC) at the ANU. He chose the NSC for its reputation as a leading center for independent and reliable policy dialogue, critical analysis, and specialized graduate and professional education in Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
In our discussion about the value of pursuing advanced studies abroad, despite the plethora of universities in the Philippines, he shared his perspective that choosing unconventional paths, especially in his policing career, has always been intrinsic to him.
Byron explained that he has always been inclined to choose the less traveled path, firmly believing in the greater opportunities that lie beyond one’s comfort zone, whether in policing or in seeking higher education overseas.
This approach, he feels, leads to a broader understanding and a more comprehensive perspective. He further elaborated on this by expressing his admiration for how the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) prioritizes overseas advanced studies.
He noted that each year, approximately 10 young military officers pursue higher education in Australia under the defense bilateral agreement. This strategy, according to him, reflects the AFP’s progressive and forward-thinking approach, rooted in a strong commitment to education.
Thus, he aspires for the PNP to embrace a comparable approach to education, aiming to improve the policymaking and strategic planning abilities of its future leaders and to guide the strategic direction of the police organization.
What distinguishes Lt. Col. Allatog in the challenging field of policing in the Philippines is his unwavering determination to excel amidst numerous obstacles.
The unique challenges of his profession, including high crime rate, corruption, and political complexities, are areas where Allatog has consistently demonstrated an unshakeable commitment to ethical principles, integrity, and fairness.
This dedication to serving the community was recognized in 2014 when he was honored as one of the Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service, receiving the prestigious MetroBank Outstanding Filipinos Award, a coveted yearly search distinction also awarded to exemplary teachers and soldiers.
Another testament to his exceptional approach in policing came in 2017 when he was named one of “The Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines” (TOYM).
The ward highlighted his respectful approach to human life and his commitment to legal principles, especially in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.
His adherence to the rule of law and human rights has been particularly commended. Moreover, Allatog’s ability to adapt, innovate, and think creatively has been instrumental not just in handling the complexities of his role but also in mentoring his subordinates effectively. These accolades underscore Allatog’s exceptional leadership and his contribution to upholding the highest standards in law enforcement.
Lt. Col. Allatog emphasizes further the critical role of advanced studies in shaping the future of policing in the Philippines. He believes that relying solely on experience is insufficient for steering the PNP towards a promising future, especially given the rapidly evolving nature of crime and the complexity of the Philippine environment.
Allatog’s extensive on-the-ground experience as Chief of Police in various regions – including Bangued in Abra and La Trinidad in Benguet in the Cordillera region, Bogo City in Cebu in the Central Visayas region, and Balanga City in Bataan in the Central Luzon region- informs his viewpoint.
He asserts that while experience and a solid service reputation are valuable, they are not enough in isolation. To truly advance law enforcement on a national level and global standards, a combination of practical experience and the insights gained from advanced studies is essential.
According to Allatog, the blend of a global perspective, crucial for tackling challenges like cross-border crime and evolving threats, along with enhanced skills and strategic insights from a comprehensive understanding of national security, is key to propelling the PNP forward in effectively addressing contemporary law enforcement challenges, making officers more adept and versatile in their roles.
Lt. Col. Allatog’s career in the PNP exemplifies a rare fusion of unwavering commitment to field works, academic excellence, and groundbreaking leadership.
His journey, distinguished by significant achievements and accolades, reflects a profound dedication to law enforcement and community service. Educated under scholarships and further honed through advanced studies at institutions like the FBI National Academy and the Australian National University, Allatog’s educational background will significantly influence his future policing approach.
Moreso, he strongly advocates for integrating education into the PNP’s framework, addressing the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. In tackling the unique complexities of policing in the Philippines, such as high crime rate, drug crisis, and corruption, Allatog has consistently upheld integrity and ethical standards.
His receipt of prestigious awards like the “Metrobank Outstanding Filipinos Award” and “TOYM” award underscores his dedication to the rule of law, human rights, and community-based policing.
Allatog’s career serves as a beacon, inspiring young PNP members to strive for excellence, embrace innovation, and commit to integrity.
“We are set to see his ongoing leadership and mentorship within the PNP significantly influence the force’s future, steering it towards more effective, community-focused, and ethical policing practices,” I would love to say.
By: Alfred P. Dalizon
Source: Journalnews
