Bacolod city: The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) received a significant boost in its mission capability with the donation of two Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) vehicles, valued at approximately PHP6.5 million, from the city government.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed that the arrival of these armored tactical vehicles marks a pivotal development for Bacolod, being the first of their kind in the Negros Island Region. He emphasized that these vehicles symbolize the city’s commitment to equipping law enforcement with the necessary tools to protect public safety effectively.

During a ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center grounds, Mayor Gasataya officially handed over the SWAT vehicles to BCPO Director Col. Joeresty Coronica. Col. Coronica acknowledged the donation as a testament to the city government’s ongoing support in enhancing the operational readiness of the BCPO and ensuring a safer environment for the residents of Bacolod.

Col. Coronica highlighted the importance of the SWAT vehicles in significantly improving BCPO’s mobility and response capabilities, particularly in addressing peace and order issues, conducting emergency operations, and undertaking other public safety initiatives. Additionally, he mentioned that further requests have been made for additional ammunition, ballistic shields, and level IV bulletproof vests to bolster the city police force’s resources.