Marantan bids farewell to DCPO, vows continued service in new peacebuilding role

DAVAO CITY (July 3)— After nearly a year at the helm of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), Acting Director PCol. Hansel Marantan attended his final flag-raising ceremony on Monday, marking the end of his eventful tenure with a message of gratitude, humility, and pride.

Speaking before DCPO personnel, local officials, and stakeholders, Marantan thanked the men and women of the DCPO for their unwavering support throughout his 11-month leadership. He emphasized that his time in Davao was defined not only by statistics, but by a collective effort to maintain peace and restore public trust in law enforcement.

“We came here for tranquility, and we were able to maintain that. The mayor appreciated it too,” Marantan said in his remarks.

Despite initial political tension surrounding his appointment—amid the dynamics of Duterte-aligned leadership and a changing national administration—Marantan stood firm in his duty.

“Criticism comes with the job, but we don’t return anger with anger. We stay focused on peace,” he added.

Legacy of Service

Under his leadership, DCPO achieved a 100% clearance rate on all 760 indexed crimes, zero election-related violence during the 2025 midterm elections, and significant gains in anti-drug operations. He also played a key role in the arrest of fugitive religious leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, and expanded community outreach through the Barangayanihan initiative, bringing police services to hard-to-reach areas.

Transition and Confidence in Successor

Marantan said he had submitted five names for his replacement, but stressed that the final decision rests with PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III.

“What I can say to the incoming city director is: be active in engaging force multipliers. Prevention is better than cure,” he advised.

Appointed in July 2024, Marantan inherited a complex political environment but exited with accomplishments that reshaped public perception of the DCPO.

A New National Role

Following his relief order, a subsequent designation placed Marantan as the Acting Director of the PNP’s Peace Process and Development Center—a key national position that handles peacebuilding efforts in conflict-affected regions. The new assignment is widely seen as a stepping stone toward a star-rank promotion.

With his operational background and firm stance on peace and stability, Marantan is expected to lead transformative efforts in areas vulnerable to insurgency and unrest.

In his final words before stepping down, Marantan stated:

“I am Col. Hansel Marantan… now signing off.”

Yet as he leaves Davao City, many believe his public service journey is far from over.