Cops scrambling for Kosovo, Timor duty

CEBU CITY -- Despite the potential risks, policemen in Cebu are scrambling to join the Philippine contingents to be deployed as part of peacekeeping efforts in Kosovo and in East Timor.

A team from Camp Crame headed by Superintendent Leoncito Poncardas arrived in Cebu early yesterday to screen applicants and by noon, 26 policemen had already applied for inclusion in the contingent.

PNP regional director Tiburcio Fusilero said five of the 26 policemen who volunteered are officers.

It is easy to see why the policemen are eagerly volunteering.

Both multinational peacekeeping efforts, led by NATO in Kosovo and the United Nations in East Timor, pay good money for the volunteer troops.

While Poncardas did not say how much in honorariums the volunteers would be paid, it is known that they would be paid in dollars and would be serving a tour of duty of at least six months.

The volunteers can expect to receive far more than what they can receive in several years of service with the Philippine National Police.

Moreover, the volunteers can expect to gain valuable experience and practical knowledge that will ultimately be beneficial for their careers.

The five officers who have volunteered are Superintendent Constantino Barrot, Chief Inspectors Jenny Bracamonte and Nico David Rabaya, and Senior Inspectors Lemuel Obon and Jonas Ejoc.

But volunteering is not as easy as exhibiting enthusiasm and submitting names.

Poncardas said the applicants must undergo rigid screening regarding their proficiency in gunfiring, driving skills, physical fitness and others.

"We will strictly screen the applicants because those who will be sent to Kosovo and East Timor will represent our country," said Chief Inspector Mao Aplasca, a member of the screening team.