Malacañang has appointed former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Benjamin Acorda Jr. as the new head of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

The appointment was confirmed by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, though she did not provide details on why Acorda will be replacing Gilbert Cruz, who previously led the government’s crackdown on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) at the height of the controversy last year.

Acorda served as PNP chief from April 2023 to March 2024, where he was recognized for his leadership in implementing internal reforms and strengthening the police organization’s integrity campaign.

As the new PAOCC chief, Acorda is expected to continue the administration’s efforts to combat organized crime and corruption.