PNP Davao Region gets $1.3M medical equipment

A TOTAL of $1,350,000 worth of medical equipment and supplies Monday were donated by the World Medical Relief Incorporated (WMRI) to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to provide additional assistance in PNP hospitals in Davao region.

The turnover ceremony was held during the flag ceremony at the Police Regional Office (PRO) in Davao Region in Camp Quintin M. Merecido, Catitipan in Davao City.

Three container trucks brought the equipment that includes crutches, oxygen tanks, hospital tables and CT scans, among others.

Ambassador of Health David Zarate said it is the first time that WMRI partnered with the PNP in the region for the medical project.

"All of this equipment was donated for free. The only expense shelled out by the PNP was the transportation of these three container trucks," Zarate said.

Zarate, who is tasked to handle the medical projects here in the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, also said they are also eyeing donating additional equipment in the future.

"We are in full support sa kanila. Isa kasi sila priorities natin ang PNP," Zarate said in an interview at the sidelines of the activity.

WRMI, a non-government organization (NGO)-based in Detroit Michigan, has been a notable institution already involved in several charitable medical missions all over the Philippines.

Police Director Catalino Rodriguez Jr., directorate for research and development, in a separate interview, said that the medical equipment will be distributed regional health service hospitals nationwide.

However, Rodriguez admitted a shortage in terms of medical equipment in PNP hospitals, adding, "Sa ibang hospital walang sumosobra at wala ding eksakto. Kelangan din mag-enhance ng equipment based sa advancement ng technology. Itong mga equipment ay magdadagdag ng present equipment ng PNP hospitals."

Zarate said the donation of equipment is aimed for the improvement of health services for uniformed personnel in the region.