San Fernando City, La Union – Brig. Gen. Lou Frias Evangelista has been installed as the new acting police regional director for the Ilocos Region, with a commitment to enhancing community engagement and crime prevention strategies.
According to Philippines News Agency, During the turnover of command at the Ilocos Police Regional Office (PRO-1), Evangelista outlined his priorities, which include implementing a strategic approach to crime prevention and solution. He emphasized the importance of resource allocation and personnel deployment while staying ahead in crime prevention efforts. Part of his seven-point agenda is to engage the community more actively, especially the youth, in crime prevention through the establishment of neighborhood watch groups, police-community academies, and capacity-building programs. Evangelista also highlighted his intention to harness technology to optimize operational capabilities, improve data-driven decision-making, establish stronger information networks, and integrate innovation. Before his current appointment, Evangelista served as the director of the Police Community Affairs and Development Group (PCADG) at the national headquarters. He replaces Brig. Gen. John Chua, who has been assigned as chief of the Area Police Command (APC) in the Visayas. The turnover ceremony was led by PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., who called for unity and collective effort among PRO-1 personnel under the new leadership.