In response to the eventuality of criminal and terrorism attacks in different parts of the country, the Valenzuela City Police Station and the city government of Valenzuela conducted a rigorous and aggressive 14-day Special Weapons and Tactics Refresher Training for 27 high-caliber SWAT personnel of the city.
During their training, the participants underwent simulation or mock exercises with scenarios such as hostage rescue operation, active shooter takedown, vehicle takedown, and bomb explosion conducted at some commercial establishments, schools, parks and roads within the city. The participants were also briefed about the Tactical Medics Module, SWAT Modules, and Radio Communication courses.
The specialized training was a test to the participant’s tactical capabilities and mental readiness should a criminal or terrorism attack hit the city.
During their graduation ceremonies last June, Mayor Rex Gatchalian commended the police force for their effort to curb criminality in the city. The local government “will equally match the police training efforts with necessary equipment to safeguard the interest and safety of the citizenry, as well as to boost their morale,” he added.
Gatchalian previously assured the local police will receive 60 brand new vehicles to augment the monitoring and security measures in the city. The local government, through the city council, is also planning to provide new firearms, additional drug and bomb dogs to strengthen the capability of the Special Reactions Unit of the VCPS.
The local government shouldered the cost of the 14-day SWAT Refresher Training amounting to P158,000, the mayor said.
Northern Police District Director Roberto Fajardo challenged the newly-trained personnel to equip themselves for bigger challenges in security measures.
“The training is very timely now that we are facing terrorism attacks in Marawi,” Fajardo said. “This is a proactive part of your local police and the local government to prepare the security forces in any possibilities of crime and terrorism in your city and nearby areas.”
The City Chief of Police Senior Supt. Ronaldo Mendoza pledged more comprehensive and intensive trainings and re-trainings of the local police force to fully combat criminality in Valenzuela.
