NCRPO acquires 25 new motorcycles to counter crimes

To add more teeth in its fight against criminality, the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) has acquired 25 new motorcycles from Metro Manila mayors, representatives and non-government organizations (NGOs).

Metro Manila police chief Deputy Director General Reynaldo Velasco said the acquisition of the new motorcycles will speed up the police respond time on crimes in progress.

"Once the motorcycles are fully deployed, I can say that we can immediately implement our "Huli Agad" program, aimed to neutralize lawless elements operating in the metropolis after they commit crimes," said Velasco in a statement.

Velasco said 10 of the 25 250cc motorcycles (big bikes) were set to be deployed in police stations in Marikina City, Pasig City and the municipality of San Juan, while the rest will come from the office of three representatives of Manila.

Pasig City Mayor Edad Eusebio gave four big bikes to the local police while Velasco provided two motorcycles. In Marikina City, the local chapter of the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Inc. (FCCCI) provided three motorcycles to the local police.

Velasco did not identify the three representatives of Manila who donated five motorcycles each to be used by policemen to patrol their areas of responsibility.

"The program will respond to the clamor of the public for the immediate arrest of criminals who have been preying on them and other hapless citizens," said Velasco.

According to Velasco, two policemen will ride in tandem while patroling busy streets and areas where petty crimes are reportedly rampant. One of the policemen would act as the driver while the other would act as armed "pointman."

"We have to think of better strategies to outwit these criminals who are learning to be more treacherous," said Velasco. "This is one measure to ensure that motorcycle-riding cops will not be in the losing end of an encounter with a criminal group." – Non Alquitran