THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has revised its operational guidelines to ensure the safety of police officers while responding to any alarm during the the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) epidemic in the country.
PNP Chief Archie Gamboa on Monday, June 22, said the PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) initiated the publication of the Revised PNP First Responders’ Manual in accordance to the new normal.
The revised guidelines mandates observance of minimum health standards in a crime scene; modified duty rotation of mobile and beat patrollers; orientation of safety health safety protocols; and proper use of protective equipment.
“A similar Revised Manual for Police Investigators is also being finalized to better equip our crime investigators with investigative tools and technology that will not only minimize the risk of exposure to the Covid-19 virus but will also enhance capacity to solve and monitor cases, serve court processes and harmonize the functions of the criminal justice system,” he said.
Gamboa said he held a command conference over the weekend among members of the PNP Command Group, Directorial Staff, directors of National Support Units and regional directors.
He said among the matters highlighted were the conduct of locally initiated operations against high-value targets belonging to the Top 10 Most Wanted drug personalities in every jurisdiction, maximizing use of information and communication technology by going digital for a faster exchange of information and tactical accuracy on the ground and fast tracking of the construction of another RT-PCR laboratory in Central VIsayas.
He also ordered concerned officials to sustain the annual recruitment cycles within the year to fill up vacancies due to attrition and personnel requirements, the advance training on management of social media platforms of PNP units and the new normal modes of holding traditional events and ceremonies.
“In addition, I also echoed the guidance of President Rodrigo R. Duterte for PNP units to seize every opportunity to be on the offensive against illegal drugs. An all-out offensive puts the lives of our PNP personnel at risk so we must exercise all possible precautions to ensure that they are safe and that no lives are lost,” said Gamboa.
“We firmly believe that it is in protecting our own personnel that the PNP is able to protect and serve the Filipino people better,” he added.
The “PNP Investigator’s Handbook in the ‘New Normal’” contains the general principles of investigation and the general investigative procedures which will serve as an updated “go-to guide” for all investigators who respond to crime incidents.
Gamboa said the PNP will continue to be vigilant in enforcing the minimum health standards imposed by IATF on use of face masks, physical distancing, crowding, non-essential travel, among others. (SunStar Philippines)