THE Philippine National Police (PNP) inaugurated on Friday, November 6, 2020, over P1.2 billion worth of newly procured equipment which aim to enhance the operation capability of its regional offices and units.

Among the newly procured items were 255 units of patrol jeep intended for the municipal police stations, 11 shuttle buses for the regional headquarters and 22 high-speed tactical watercraft which will be turned over to the PNP Maritime Group and Special Action Force.

The PNP also acquired 5,767 units of 5.56mm basic assault rifle and 214 VHF low-band handheld radios.

The total value of the newly procured items was P1,221,601,033.

The PNP also inaugurated donated items such as two units of coaster buses and one cargo shuttle with a total of P8.714 million.

PNP Chief Camilo Cascolan said the new equipment will boost the PNP’s operational capability especially amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“This is an expression of the national government's timely response for the needs of the PNP and in recognition of the sacrifices of our policemen especially those serving in the frontlines even in the time of pandemic,” he said.

“We will be able to sustain our efforts to keep the community safe by deploying more and better PNP personnel to carry our focus police operation,“ he added. (SunStar Philippines)