PNP gets P1.8-B in new equipment, bomb-sniffing dogs

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has acquired P1.8-billion worth of equipment and bomb-sniffing dogs to aid in its operations.

Among the new equipment are two single-engine helicopters, 107 patrol jeeps, 349 motorcycles, 9,000 short firearms, 42 light machine guns, 3,405 bulletproof vests, combat helmets, and 124 handheld radios.

Aside from the equipment, the PNP also acquired 48 dogs trained to detect explosives.

The equipment and dogs were presented to the media in Camp Bagong Diwa on Monday, with PNP chief General Oscar Abayalde as the guest of honor.

In his speech during the presentation ceremony, Albayalde said the new equipment underscored the commitment of the PNP to serve the public.

“This is another shot in our enhancement capability program where we continue to strengthen our police,” he said.

In a text message to INQUIRER.net, PNP spokesperson Col. Bernard Banac said the two helicopters would be allocated to the elite Special Action Force “to support internal security, law enforcement, disaster, and public safety operations.”

Banac said other equipment would be distributed to police units nationwide.

“Definitely, it will further boost the intensified campaign against illegal drugs, criminality and terrorism,” he said. /cbb