TACLOBAN CITY – In a move to enhance the operational capabilities of law enforcement across Eastern Visayas, the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8), led by Regional Director B/Gen. Jay Cumigad, conducted the ceremonial blessing and turnover of newly issued Philippine National Police (PNP) equipment at the PRO 8 Grandstand, Camp Kangleon, Palo, Leyte, on Monday, February 24.
The blessing of the new equipment was officiated by Major Rey Ibañez, regional pastoral officer, who led prayers for the safe and effective use of the newly procured personnel carriers, communication devices, and other essential gear.
Following the blessing, Cumigad, alongside the Command Group, officially turned over the equipment to representatives from Leyte Police Provincial Office, Samar PPO, Northern Samar PPO, Eastern Samar PPO, Ormoc City Police Office, Southern Leyte PPO, Biliran PPO, and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8.
The distribution included 13 units of 4×4 Mitsubishi Triton personnel carriers; 36 units of VHF lowband handheld radios with accessories; 731 units of life vests; 731 units of hardhats; 433 units of raincoats; 450 PNP raincoats; and complete sets of search, rescue, and retrieval (SRR) equipment for the Tacloban City Police Office
In his speech, B/Gen. Cumigad emphasized the importance of equipping police forces with the necessary tools to carry out their duties effectively.
“These assets are critical in carrying out our duties with greater efficiency. Please ensure these are used properly so they may serve their purpose in the long run. These are not just tools or equipment but a symbol of our commitment to serving and protecting our communities,” he said.
The new equipment was funded through the Capability Enhancement Program (CEP) 2024, the Trust Receipts Fund, and the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2024.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
