CCPO to train force multipliers

CEBU, Philippines - To improve its intelligence network, the Cebu City Police Office will conduct a special seminar for their force multipliers which include Barangay tanods and volunteers from the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT).

Senior Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe, CCPO chief, told The FREEMAN that they will conduct an “Intelligence Orientation and Police Auxiliary Seminar” for their force multipliers throughout the city.

The said activity, according to Buenafe, is the flagship program of the Philippine National Police which was designed to establish and strengthen their intelligence capabilities, barangay local police response, and to assist the police in preventing terrorism and criminal activities throughout the city.

They are expecting 150 Barangay Tanods and BPAT members who will be trained in local intelligence gathering, basic police procedures, monitoring of criminal elements, crime prevention and on-the-spot resolution of conflict within their barangay.

In order to realize the said activity, they have sent a letter requesting Cebu City Hall to grant them P131,000 to fund the training.

Buenafe hopes to conduct the activity within the year in preparation for the upcoming 2012 Sinulog celebrations.

CCPO’s request is still subject for review by the Cebu City Council.

The funds for the activity will be taken from the city’s intelligence fund which Cebu City Mayor Rama wants to increase next year from 6 million to 20 million.

The move of the mayor, according to Buenafe, is a clear manifestation that the local government is very supportive in ensuring peace and order in the city.

Though there were questions regarding liquidation, Buenafe assured that they will have a clear and comprehensive liquidation of their intelligence funds which will be used solely for the improvement of their police operations in gathering vital intelligence information to prevent entry of various criminal groups in the city.

He added that being a highly urbanized city, maintenance of peace and order can boost the city’s economic progress which can be beneficial for all. — (FREEMAN)