IN THIS time of health crisis, police authorities are not only guarding citizens against criminals but also against unseen enemy.
Aside from guns, security personnel are now arming themselves with disinfectants and protective gears.
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Colonel Kirby John Kraft said their office is now in full alert status to combat the deadly virus as it has entered Davao City.
While most of the citizens are now at the comforts of their homes, majority of the police personnel are on the ground to enforce the policies mandated for a community under quarantine.
There may be underlying fear of contracting the virus since it does not spare anyone even men in uniform, but they have to abide by their sworn duty to protect the public even from unseen enemy. Just like the healthcare workers, law enforcers are also at the frontline to ensure that people are safe and policies are followed.
In Davao City, Kraft said they have established a total of 23 control quarantine points working 24/7.
“May direct contact tayo sa tao sa pag-i-implement ng quarantine at social distancing, talagang gumagamit kami ng face mask at face shield para pang-cover sa mukha kaya nagpalit na rin kami ng uniform naming, yong long sleeve para protected (so we are protected),” Kraft said.
He has been reminding his personnel to strictly observe precautionary safety measures while performing their field duties such as maintaining social distance, carrying a pocket alcohol, wearing face masks, hand gloves, face shields, using of 12-inch sticks in checking bags, and frequent hand washing.
Kraft added having stubborn citizens who do not heed their call remains a challenge on their part in enforcing the law. There are still a few people who choose to follow their own pursuits despite the city government’s consistent reminders.
But people’s appreciation and concern have boosted their morale. Kraft said they’ve been receiving donations such as food and water as well as the needed basic protection like alcohol, sanitizer, masks, and hand gloves which means that Dabawenyos appreciate their efforts.
He also thanker Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio for her support in safeguarding the welfare of the Davao policemen by providing their needs in terms of personal protective equipment (PPE) and motorcycle units.
As the head of DCPO, Kraft emphasized the need for Davao City policemen to stay healthy as they are an essential workforce to contain the spread of the virus while ensuring public safety and order.