MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) underscored that the turnover of new police personnel carriers to the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Lanao del Sur is vital in ensuring a safer and more secure environment for citizens in the province and neighboring areas.
In her message during the ceremonial turnover held at the Marawi Convention Center, Pangandaman emphasized that the new 4×4 all-terrain vehicles would enhance the ability of law enforcement to quickly respond to emergencies and strengthen their presence across the province, particularly in areas where access can be challenging due to terrain and weather conditions.
“Sa pamamagitan ng mga vehicles na ito, mas mapapaigting natin ang pagpapatupad ng mandato ng ating mga kapulisan na itaguyod ang kapayapaan, kaayusan at kapakanan ng bawat bayan,” she said.
A total of 40 vehicles were officially handed over to the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) on February 20. These vehicles will be distributed to Marawi City and the 39 municipalities within Lanao del Sur, ensuring that police forces are better equipped to serve and protect the local communities.
Police Brigadier General Romeo J. Macapaz, Director of PRO BAR, accepted the vehicles on behalf of the PNP, expressing gratitude for the continued support and commitment from the national government to enhance the region’s law enforcement capabilities.
Sharing a lighthearted comment about the popular joke of police arriving late to emergencies, the Budget Chief expressed confidence that with the new vehicles, the police would now be able to respond more promptly, ensuring the safety and security of the communities.
“It is our fervent hope that these PNP vehicles will further help in ensuring the welfare of our people by increasing police visibility, lowering crime rates, and responding to emergencies,” she added.
Pangandaman, who hails from Lanao del Sur, expressed her personal connection to the province and its people, noting that this initiative would greatly impact her hometown and neighboring municipalities. She also highlighted the importance of the turnover as part of the national government’s efforts to foster peace and security throughout the country. (APB/PIA-10)
