We are bent to replace the crime statistics in the region with lower ones through our intensified efforts on law enforcement.
This was the statement made by PCSupt. Alan LM Purisima, head of Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) during the summit on Peace and Order held by the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) in Clarkfield recently.
“We have made adjustments in our tactics according to the needs of the time,” Purisima explained, as he emphasized the importance of massive information campaign through the various forms of media, to increase the public’s awareness against crime.
He also stressed that it is “essential for the community to become an active partner of law enforcers in the resolution or even prevention of crimes”.
It is the concerted effort of all stakeholders, Purisima said, that would spell the success of any undertaking, including the maintenance of peace and security in the province.
He said that they have initiated activities involving the five pillars of the justice system for stronger collaborative efforts. He also mentioned that some local government units have implemented their own efforts to prevent crimes through the passing of ordinances in their localities.
Examples of these are Olongapo City’s Project Kabisig; Cabanatuan City’s public safety zones where drivers have to run at minimal speed, roll down their windows , while motorcycle drivers have to remove their helmets; and the no helmet, no ride policy in Bulacan.
He added that PRO3 has been implementing Oplan Paglilibot, a weekly review and assessment of the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS) and the performance of police offices in the provinces, cities and municipalities.
Purisima also reported on recent PRO3 accomplishments such as 494 operations against illegal drugs, with 695 persons arrested and 381 cases filed; 219 operations against carnapping with 118 persons arrested, 16 vehicles recovered and 60 cases filed; 356 operations against loose firearms, 43 firearms recovered and 449 persons arrested.
According to Sheldon Jacaban, carnapping incidents may be slightly higher in Pampanga than in other provinces but it has recorded a decrease while those in Bulacan had a slight increase.
He said that while crime incidents continue to pose a challenge to the law enforcers and the community, “we need to adjust our tactics, enhance personnel capability and augment logistics” to have a better chance at neutralizing crime groups. (Pampanga PIO)
