NO, I’M not (yet) suggesting that we merge the police and rescue functions. Let’s be clear about that.
What I’m asking is simply this: Could that be a good idea? Is it something worth exploring — perhaps even piloting?
There are two kinds of rescue operations, broadly speaking.
First, there are the day-to-day rescues — the ones done even without disasters, such as road accidents, flash floods, and missing persons.
Then there are the disaster rescues — massive operations during typhoons, earthquakes, or landslides.
In both cases, we’ve seen how the Philippine National Police (PNP) can adapt to extraordinary functions.
The PNP has shown excellence in specialized roles — the Special Action Force (SAF) and Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT) teams come to mind. If our police officers can handle hostage rescues and anti-terror operations, why not also train them for community-based rescue?
The Gray Zone in Rescue Operations
Rescue services in the Philippines are in what I call a “gray zone.” Who’s really in charge?
The answer varies depending on the place.
In some local government units (LGUs), the police handle it. In others, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) takes the lead.
Elsewhere, the task falls to the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) or a volunteer rescue team.
There’s no national standard. Each LGU improvises, often depending on its budget and personnel. This unevenness is part of the reason why disaster response can be so inconsistent from one province to another.
In a previous essay, I asked: Why not let ambulance services be handled by the fire department? This time, I’m asking: Why not let rescue operations be handled by the police?
A Helicopter View — Literally
Here’s one reality that deserves attention: very few LGUs own helicopters for either police or rescue use. Yet helicopters are vital for search and rescue — especially in mountainous or flooded areas where ground access is impossible.
So here’s a practical thought: why not equip police aviation units with more helicopters that can double as rescue craft?
After all, police already have trained pilots and security logistics in place. The same aircraft could serve multiple purposes — law enforcement, medical evacuation, and disaster response.
This idea isn’t new. In fact, many countries have already combined police and rescue functions under one roof.
Japan’s police, for instance, have dedicated air rescue units that respond to disasters and mountain accidents.
In Germany, police aviation units often handle medical evacuation and search operations.
Even in the United States, many state police and sheriff departments run helicopter-based rescue teams.
Of course, some might say: “We don’t even have enough helicopters for the Air Force!” — and they’d be right. But that’s a separate problem. We need more helicopters across all critical services, not just the military.
What’s ironic is that some corrupt private contractors in the country have managed to buy helicopters and even small jets. If they can do it, why can’t the government? (To be continued)/PN
