ILOILO City — In a bid to enhance public safety, the local government unit has strengthened its police force with new assets and equipment, further solidifying local law enforcers’ reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s safest cities.
Mayor Jerry Treñas announced the delivery of a new armored car for the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), bringing to seven the vans of the elite police unit.
“Our goal is to maintain and strengthen our position as the 8th safest city in Southeast Asia, according to the Southeast Asia Safety Index for 2023,” Treñas said.
The city government also gave three new police cars, bringing to 40 units the ICPO’s fleet of patrol cars to efficiently cover the city’s seven districts.
The enhanced fleet also included 61 new police motorcycles, ensuring rapid police response to emergency situations, particularly in high-speed pursuits and crime prevention.
To further strengthen the police force, the city acquired two K-9s trained to detect explosives, 80 pieces of 5.56mm rifles, and 5,000 rounds of ammunition.
New office equipment and furniture were also provided to support the ICPO’s operational needs.
The city’s commitment to public safety is evident in the activation of four new police stations, inaugurated with the attendance led of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil. The newly established stations are located in Barangay Tanza Esperanza (City Proper), Barangay Bo. Obrero (Lapuz), Barangay M.H. Del Pilar (Jaro), and the Gaisano Iloilo City Center (Mandurriao).
“This is a dream come true for us. We have been ready since late 2019, but the pandemic delayed our plans. These new stations in Jaro, Mandurriao, and Lapuz are crucial for our city’s safety infrastructure,” Treñas noted.
The new police stations will be equipped are adequately equipped with supplies and logistics.
“This development is a testament to the shared commitment of the Iloilo City Government and the ICPO, promising a more peaceful and liveable environment for both residents and visitors,” Treñas added.
He also underscored the enhanced response time due to the new resources. “With these new facilities and 147 additional policemen, we can ensure faster response times and a safer community,” he said.