By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has acquired some P485 million worth of firearms, mobility and protection equipment as part of its modernization efforts.
PNP director for logistics Maj. Gen. Mario Reyes said the new equipment was procured under the force’s capability enhancement programs from 2021 to 2023.
During Monday’s blessing rites, PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., presented the new equipment including 3,243 striker-fired 9mm pistols worth P61.4 million, 406 units of autogated night vision worth more than P121 million, and 2,648 all-purpose tactical vests worth over P113 million.
The PNP also acquired a total of 11 light motorcycles 150 cc worth P1.57 million and five 650 cc heavy motorcycles and 143 single cab patrol jeepneys worth over P175 million.
“Yung transportation natin halos sa tingin ko 80% na yung last report na nababasa ko, 80 to 90% yung kumbaga objective natin na nako-comply na natin. Ang pinagpapasalamat ko is the LGUs (local government units) are also doing their part and malaking bagay yung support nila,” Acorda said in a press briefing at Camp Crame.
He said they are planning to procure around 22,000 body-worn cameras for this year.
Acorda said the plan is part of PNP’s ongoing efforts to keep the Philippines’ ranking as the third safest country in Southeast Asia, according to the 2023 Global Law and Order Report of Washington-based think tank Gallup.
“Yes around 22,000 [body-worn cameras] ang balak bilhin this year pero kung makuha natin mas mura mas maganda,” he said.
Aside from acquiring more devices for their operations, Acorda said they also plan to put up more police stations to accommodate about 6,000 recruits from last year.
From a 1:500 ratio of cops per person, Acorda said the recruitment lowered the ratio to 1:125.
