New cops undergo anti-terror training

CEBU, Philippines — A total of 170 newly-appointed police officers began their Basic Internal Security Operations Course (BISOC) last July 23, 2024, at the Regional Special Training Unit in Sibonga, Cebu, focusing on comprehensive training in counterinsurgency and anti-terrorism efforts.

The class, that consists of 146 males and 24 females, will undergo a specialized 60-day training program designed to provide them with essential skills and confidence in combating insurgents and ensuring internal security.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Ace Pelare, PRO-7 spokesperson, emphasized the importance of this training, which will be followed by the creation of specialized groups of young and highly-trained police officers dedicated to carrying out counterinsurgency measures.

“This is very important because lahi ang away sa law enforcement diri sa siyudad ngadto sa pag kontra sa mga insurgents because ang imong approach didto is not only your capability in an armed encounter but of course how to address the issues that they are throwing in the mountainous areas,” said Pelare.

Pelare added that recent operations have resulted in the dismantling of guerilla fronts across the region, marking substantial progress in the ongoing battle against insurgents.

“Ang tanan guerilla sa Central Visayas areas were already dismantled. Meaning to say, we are winning the war against insurgents,” Pelare added.

The collaboration between the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is essential, with the AFP leading operations while the PNP provides crucial support to ensure a coordinated and effective response against insurgency.

In a press release on the Facebook page of PRO-7, Regional Director Police Brigadier General Anthony Aberin underscored the crucial importance of police officers enhancing their skills in internal security operations to effectively address current challenges and to safeguard community welfare.

"This training aims to sustain our victory in the anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism campaign. I have complete confidence in your abilities and believe you will emerge as more capable officers," said Aberin. — /ATO (FREEMAN)