THE government has released fund for the Philippine National Police’ modernization program that will end next year.
Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad said in a statement Monday that it disbursed P1.75-billion for the PNP as part of its five-year modernization program which is expected to be completed next year.
Abad said the release will support the efforts of the administration to enhance the capability of the police force to effectively fight criminality and maintain peace and order throughout the country.
“The fund will be used to purchase equipment for our policemen, including the procurement of around 11,000 units of brand new guns to fill up firearms insufficiency in the PNP, 750 units of digital base, mobile and handheld radio to provide a faster means of communication, as well as police vehicle units,” Abad said.
“Considering the recent investigation on anomalies in the purchase of helicopters by PNP during the past administration, we have exercised caution in determining the amount of funds released for the PNP’s modernization program. Furthermore, as we strengthen the PNP’s capability, we want to make sure accountability in the use of modernization funds,” the Budget and Management chief added.
The P1.75 billion was charged against the PNP’s budget for Capability Enhancement Program of P2 billion. The modernization program, which spans five years, is scheduled to end in 2012.
In addition, this year’s modernization fund will be used to procure necessary tools for the PNP’s intelligence and investigative activities, to strengthen its capability to manage civil disturbance, and to improve its information and communications technology and data management.
With the release, Abad said the public can expect improvement and development in the capabilities of policemen nationwide in fighting the criminals and in responding to crises.
