Barias wants cohesive NCRPO

Metro police chief Director Geary Barias has vowed to transform the 15,000-strong National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) into a well-disciplined, cohesive and courteous police unit.

“I intend to do this through the effective use of the (Philippine National Police or PNP) rewards and punishment system,” Barias told his five police district directors and 37 station commanders at his first command conference.

Aside from giving medals and decorations, Barias said he is willing to extend material incentives and other forms of support to hardworking policemen.

However, he warned that he is also quick to punish erring policemen.

During the conference, Barias was briefed by his staff of the prevailing situation at the NCRPO and their programs and projects to fight criminality, illegal drugs and terrorism.

Manila Police District (MPD) director Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales said Barias directed them to implement PNP chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr.’s orders, such as putting more policemen on the streets.

Rosales said the MPD has started returning issued Armalite rifles to the NCRPO in exchange for shotguns, which are effective in close combat.

Razon wants only special units like the Regional Special Action Unit (RSAU), District Special Reaction Unit (DSRU) and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) to carry high-powered firearms.

Noting that Christmas is a little more than two months away, Barias wants policemen to man “every nook and cranny of the metropolis” since street crimes are always on the rise during this period.

He said members of the RSAU, DSRU and SWAT units will patrol the streets in vehicles and motorcycles to deter petty criminals. – Non Alquitran