New patrol vehicles to enhance police operations in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY - The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) received a significant boost to its operational capacity with the turnover of new patrol vehicles on Monday, an official announced. During the handover ceremony, PRO5 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon underscored the importance of these mobility assets in improving law enforcement in the region. Dizon expressed confidence that the vehicles would be used effectively to ensure the safety and security of Bicolanos. 'These vehicles are vital tools that will strengthen our capability to serve and protect the people of Bicol,' he said. 'We renew our commitment to maintain peace and order and ensure the safety of everyone in the region.' The newly acquired fleet includes a 4x4 Isuzu D-Max personnel carrier and three 4x2 Toyota Hilux patrol jeeps. The acquisition was made possible through the Congress-Initiated Changes/Adjustments (CICA), thanks to the efforts of former Senator and current Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara. The vehicles were distributed among police units across the region, with recipients including the provincial offices of Masbate and Camarines Sur, as well as the municipal police stations in Catanduanes and Sorsogon. Dizon said the vehicles are fully equipped with necessary accessories and will be deployed in accordance with the Philippine National Police (PNP) rules and regulations governing the issuance of mobility assets. 'The strategic acquisition of these mobility assets is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and reach of law enforcement operations in the Bicol region,' he added. Meanwhile, PRO5 reported that PHP1.2 million worth of illegal drugs were confiscated in anti-drug operations conducted from Sept. 2 to 8. Various police stations and units across the region carried out 18 operations, resulting in the seizure of 189.07 grams of shabu and 8.60 grams of marijuana. A total of 26 drug suspects were arrested during the weeklong campaign. Source: Philippines News agency