PNP tests container van converted into command post for SONA

Photos from Julliane Love de Jesus/INQUIRER.net

A 40-foot container van converted into a police command post on wheels will be stationed for the first time near the Batasan Pambansa complex where President Benigno Aquino III will deliver his last State of the Nation Address on July 27, Monday.

Equipped with monitors for security cameras, television units, computers, satellite phone and handheld radios, the mobile advance command post (ACP) will be on trial run to make communication and coordination between commanders and policemen on the ground faster and more efficient.

PNP Communications and Electronic Service said the basic function of the mobile ACP is to coordinate activities between and among operating units, commanding officers, higher headquarters and other agencies in the area of engagement.

It could also be used by the police when commercial telecommunications are down during power interruptions and other emergencies.

Senior Superintendent Ramon Purugganan, CES deputy chief, said the mobile command post was not made solely for SONA but also for future major events, such as the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation and emergency situations like disasters.

“We can bring this command post everywhere. This is designed to support the PNP on all events, occasions, disasters, even when conducting investigation,” Purugganan said.

The mobile ACP, currently parked inside Camp Crame, has four fixed and pan-tilt-zoom security cameras that are directly connected to the National Headquarters Situation Monitoring Room, satellite and cellular phones of Smart, Globe and PLDT networks, TV units and satellite receivers to monitor broadcast stations, and two laptops with Internet connection.

The van also has a small conference area, which can accommodate at least nine persons for video conferencing, a built-in toilet and a storage area. It has a shoreline power source and a 25KVA generator set.

According to PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor, the ACP will be manned by commanders during SONA and will be supervised by the commander of the national “Task Force Kapayapaan.” The TF commander for SONA is Chief Superintendent Allen Bantolo, officer in charge of the National Capital Region Police Office.

The ground commander, meanwhile, is Quezon City Police District director Chief Superintendent Joel Pagdilao.