BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City government has turned over two Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) vans to the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) to strengthen the city’s peace and order operations.
The vehicles, valued at P6.5 million, were formally handed over by Mayor Greg Gasataya to Colonel Joeresty Coronica, BCPO director, on October 29 at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds.
Mayor Gasataya said the SWAT vans were sourced from the city government’s local funds following a request from the BCPO.
“These vans are armored to protect our officers from gunfire or explosions while approaching dangerous situations. They provide a safe space to plan and stage operations,” the mayor said. He added that having these additional vehicles is crucial for critical police operations.
“Without a SWAT van, ordinary patrol cars are used, which compromises the safety of the SWAT team,” he explained.
Coronica expressed his gratitude to the city government and Mayor Gasataya for the support.
“This is the first time in BCPO history that we have acquired brand-new SWAT vans. We are very thankful to the LGU and the mayor,” he said.
He also noted that the vans could serve as a model for SWAT teams not only in the Negros Island Region (NIR) but across the country.
Currently, BCPO has four fully equipped and well-trained SWAT teams. Coronica revealed that the office has pending requests for additional supplies, including helmets, ammunition, ballistic shields, and level-4 vests, which are now being processed for procurement.
“The vehicles will boost the morale of our SWAT teams and are essential in responding to man-made crises, such as hostage situations,” he added./PN
