By Jennifer P. Rendon
The Police Regional Office 6 has boosted the operational capability of its lower units through the distribution of new logistical equipment.
These include hundreds of high-powered firearms, as well as communication and mobility assets.
Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, Western Visayas police chief, led the ceremonial turnover to provincial and city police directors and their respective property custodians on March 24.
The distribution included 294 units of 5.56mm basic assault rifles—124 Dasan, 146 Galil, and 24 Emtan—as well as 216 rounds of .40mm ammunition.
Also turned over were 21 night vision monoculars, 170 enhanced combat helmets, 45 handheld radios, 1,750 raincoats, and 1,016 life vests.
PRO-6 provided 58 tires for 4×4 personnel carriers, 70 tires for 4×2 patrol jeeps, and 10 motorcycles.
The Iloilo City Police Office and Bacolod City Police Office received five motorcycles each.
The Guimaras Provincial Police Office received four generator sets, while Aklan, Capiz, and Iloilo PPOs received one each.
Recipients of the basic assault rifles included Guimaras, Aklan, Capiz, Antique, and Negros Occidental PPOs, as well as the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6.
Wanky acknowledged the PNP National Headquarters for providing most of the logistical support.
The raincoats and life vests were procured using PRO-6 funds.
“These supplies are crucial as we continue to improve performance and deliver quality police service,” Wanky said.
He emphasized that, despite the political and operational challenges, the morale and motivation of police personnel remain high.
“The statistics of our accomplishments, particularly in the campaign against illegal drugs, indicate strong commitment to honest and sincere service,” he said.
“With this added equipment, more units and personnel will be empowered.”
Wanky noted that the firearms, radios, and motorcycles are intended to support security and other police operations.
The remaining equipment will enhance police visibility and emergency response capabilities.
He said the turnover was timely as the region prepares for upcoming security demands.
“We need to strengthen police visibility because criminal activity and threats may rise in urban centers,” he said.
“This is a challenge to all areas in the region—we must prevent any form of threat from causing panic or disorder.”
Wanky reminded personnel that the responsibility to deliver results comes with the privilege of new resources.
He urged end-users to prioritize the proper use, maintenance, and care of the equipment.
