THE PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) has acquired three more helicopters, increasing the total to 10, to further boost its air capability.
PNP Director for Logistics Angelito Casimiro said each of the H125 costs P205,305,898.
"Mayroon tayong bagong dating lang na tatlong H125 na air bus undergoing field testing and evaluation prior to acceptance," Casimiro said.
The H125 is in addition to the PNP air assets which include four units of H125; two Robinson 44 trainer chopper; and one unit of Cessna C150 trainer fixed wing.
The Bell 429, which was involved in a crash in Laguna last March while carrying then PNP chief Archie Gamboa and three other police officials and police personnel, was already beyond mechanical repair, said Casimiro.
He said the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will pay P430 million for the ill-fated chopper. This would be used for the acquisition of Pump Air Ambulance, two H130, necessary for rescue operations, medical evacuation, aerial survey, and lifting of vital assets..
"Magiging air ambulance natin ‘yung dalawang bibilhin from the proceeds doon sa nahulog na Bell 429 natin," he said.
Casimiro also said they hope to acquire a C219 aircraft that will allow the PNP to transport relief goods as well as address the requirements of the Special Action Force (SAF). (SunStar Philippines)