DILG defends PNP on procurement of helicopters
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) yesterday defended the Philippine National Police (PNP) for buying their own helicopters and other modern equipment.
DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said the procurement of helicopters is not for show but a necessity to improve the delivery of police service.
“This is not a luxury purchase but a needed acquisition for the PNP. In fact, it’s long overdue,” he said.
Malaya said the use of helicopters and other equipment recently acquired by the PNP is to aid in augmenting its operational capacity.
There is nothing unusual in purchasing helicopters, according to Malaya, who said it is common practice of police forces in other countries.
The PNP recently purchased seven aircraft and other equipment such as 37 units of medium troop carriers and 12 pickup trucks, among others, worth P2.88 billion to further boost its firepower and mobility assets.
One of the helicopters, a Bell 429 twin-engine, crashed last week after the aircraft snagged on electrical cables in San Pedro City, Laguna.
PNP chief Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa, three other police generals and four officers were injured in the crash.
Two of the injured, Maj. Gens. Mariel Magaway and Jose Ma. Victor Ramos, remain in critical condition.
Maj. Gen. Benigno Durana Jr., Directorate for Police Community Relations chief, said there are encouraging developments on the condition of the injured police officials.
Durana appealed to the public for prayers for the other injured officers that also include PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac, who is recuperating at home from a back injury.
