THE POLICE Regional Office (PRO) XI recently participated in a nationwide annual inspection of disaster response equipment, underscoring its unwavering commitment to public safety and readiness for natural and man-made calamities.
The inspection, held earlier at Camp Sgt. Quintin M. Merecido in Buhangin, Davao City, aimed to meticulously evaluate the readiness, capabilities, and responsiveness of police units in executing crucial disaster response and rescue operations.
Police Brigadier General Leon Victor Z. Rosete said the initiative forms a vital part of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) broader disaster risk reduction and management framework, aligning with national emergency response objectives.
During the simultaneous inspection, Rosete personally scrutinized essential equipment vital to ensure the operational capabilities and proper function of communication devices, emergency lights, rubber boats, first aid kits, and various transport vehicles.
In his address, he emphasized the critical need for police officers to be equipped with tools that extend “far beyond a gun and a badge.”
This rigorous review is in line with the call from Police Director General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil for police personnel to broaden their responsibilities beyond maintaining peace and order. Gen. Marbil has urged officers to extend their role in ensuring citizen safety by being prepared to respond to a wide array of emergencies, including fire incidents, natural disasters, accidents, and similar situations, and to provide first aid when necessary.
PRO XI stated that the event is a clear manifestation of the PNP’s enduring commitment to ensuring that every police officer can provide proper and timely responses before, during, and after the occurrence of natural calamities.
The office highlighted that proper preparation and thorough inspections are crucial for accuracy and safety, commending the participation and presence of personnel at the event.
