• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The operational readiness and capability of police units in Negros Island Region got a boost after receiving more mobility assets and brand new high-powered guns from Camp Crame.
P/Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, regional director of PRO-NIR, led on Monday the distribution of seven Mertsav Light Machine Guns, 24 units of 4×4 personnel carriers, eight light transport vehicles, two units of motorcycles and 220 combat helmets to the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office and Bacolod City Police Office at Camp Alfredo Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City.
The assets are intended to enhance police mobility, improve tactical response, and strengthen internal security operations across the Negros Island Region, Ibay disclosed.
NOCPPO received 13 units of personnel carriers, six units light transport vehicles, a patrol motorcycle, and two light machine guns, while the Bacolod City Police Office got 40 combat helmets.
The NORPPO also received five units of personnel carriers, 2 units of light transport vehicles, a patrol motorcycle, three light machine guns and 104 combat helmets, while the Siquijor Provincial Police Office got six units of personnel carriers and six combat helmets.
On the other hand, the Regional Mobile Force Battalion also received two light machine guns and 30 combat helmets.
In his message during the turnover rites, Ibay said the blessing and turnover of mobility assets, firearms, and internal security operations equipment mark an important milestone in strengthening the operational capability of the newly created PRO Negros Island Region, reflecting the organization’s continued commitment to ensuring that police officers are properly equipped, protected, and prepared to carry out their duties effectively.
With these resources, he said that police units are better positioned to perform day-to-day law enforcement functions, respond to disasters and emergencies, and conduct internal security operations with greater efficiency and professionalism.
Stressing that improved capability comes with greater responsibility, Ibay reminded all recipients that the proper use, care, and accountability of these assets are non-negotiable, and that strict compliance with existing policies on the handling and use of firearms and equipment is imperative.
“As we continue to confront evolving security challenges, may these assets serve as instruments of protection not only for our personnel, but more importantly, for the communities we serve. Let them strengthen our resolve to perform our mandate with integrity, professionalism, and compassion,” the PRO-NIR chief said.*
