PNP stands by pistol deal

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is standing by the decision of its Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) on the P1.198-billion deal to purchase 59,904 handguns for the police amid accusations of irregularities.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr. maintained the procurement was very transparent and strictly followed the rules under Republic Act 9184.

“We stand by the procurement, we are proud that this is very transparent,” Cerbo said.

He said PNP officials involved in the deal are ready to face all the inquiries. “Our conscience is clear.”

A gun supplier accused PNP officials of irregularities in the pistol procurement, saying they were not given a fair chance.

Earlier, PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome approved the supply contract for the P1.198-billion worth of 59,904 pistols, a step closer to meeting 100 percent of PNP handgun requirements.

Bartolome signed the supply contract with Trust Trade in joint venture with Glock, supplier of the 9mm Glock 17 Generation 4 pistols.

Deputy Director General Emelito Sarmiento, BAC chairman and concurrent PNP deputy chief for administration, maintained the deal was aboveboard and the BAC strictly followed all the procedures in the procurement of the pistols, hoping to provide firearms for 148,000 policemen nationwide.

The technical working group (TWG) said the delivery period is 570 days – the first tranche will be within 150 days 12,000 units, second tranche is within 120 days, third tranche is within 120 days, 4th and 5th tranche within 90 days.