The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) MIMAROPA Regional Director Gelacio D. Bongngat reiterated their agents’ dedication to service and excellence despite the inherent dangers of their profession.
During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum of the Philippine Information Agency-MIMAROPA on October 1, Bongngat highlighted the unique challenges faced by NBI agents, who work without the visible security that uniformed police officers typically have.
“Napakadelikado ng trabaho. Kung makikita ninyo, ang NBI hindi naka-uniporme at kami ay itinuturing na civilian in nature. Paglabas namin, hindi rin namin alam kung sino ang mga kalaban namin. Paglabas ng mga agent diyan, dala lang nila ay ‘yung dasal na ‘Sana Lord, may I be safe,” he said.
Unlike the police, who are often equipped with patrol cars and long firearms, NBI agents operate in civilian attire, adding to the complexity and risk of their duties.
Bongngat also noted the region’s significant demand for NBI services, with the bureau’s agents responsible for serving nearly 500,000 people across MIMAROPA.
Despite being short-staffed, the NBI’s commitment to delivering justice and public service remains steadfast, thanks to the support of the local government units (LGUs).
“Kulang kami sa personnel, pero sa tulong ng mga LGUs, nagagampanan pa rin namin ang aming tungkulin. Still, our agents are committed to service and excellence,” he added.
In addition to the risks, Bongngat shared the bureau’s accomplishments, including successful operations against drug dens, the apprehension of wanted persons, and the conduct of parallel investigations into high-value cases across the region in coordination with other law enforcement agencies.
“Talagang nagpapasalamat kami sa PNP at AFP dahil kung wala sila, hindi namin magampanan nang maayos ang mga high-value target operations. Kung wala ang kanilang suporta, malamang ma-ambush kami ng mga kalaban,” he said. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
