BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City government turned over computer sets and ammunition to the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) on January 14 to enhance the operational and administrative capabilities of the city’s police force.
The items—worth P2,158,200 for computer equipment, consisting of 36 computer units and 34 printers, and 40,800 rounds of 9mm ammunition valued at P989,400—were formally received by BCPO Director Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica from Mayor Greg Gasataya during a ceremony at the BCPO headquarters.
Mayor Gasataya said the assistance forms part of the city’s continuing efforts to ensure a well-equipped and efficient police force.
“This support for our police force is part of our continuing effort to ensure a well-equipped, prepared, and efficient law enforcement and public service in the City of Bacolod,” Gasataya said.
Coronica said the computer units will improve BCPO operations, particularly in administrative work, and will be distributed to all police stations and units under the city police office.
The ammunition, he added, is intended for the BCPO’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, which requires regular and sustained training.
“As you know, SWAT personnel must maintain steady hands and consistent performance. When a man-made crisis occurs, SWAT is the unit that we immediately tap, so their training must not lapse and should always be maintained,” Coronica said.
The BCPO SWAT unit is composed of four teams and is equipped with two armored SWAT vans provided by the local government last year. Coronica said the vehicles are the first of their kind in the Negros Island Region.
He also disclosed that Mayor Gasataya has pledged to provide 10 electric vehicles (EVs) to be used as patrol cars by the city’s 10 police stations.
“We are also expecting an additional 10 EVs. Once these arrive, it will be another first, as the BCPO will serve as a model in using EVs as patrol cars, similar to the Valenzuela City Police Station,” Coronica said.
Earlier reports also noted that Mayor Gasataya approved an increase in the monthly allowance of police personnel assigned to the BCPO, as well as members of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), raising it to P2,000 per month./PN
