PNP launches program to support police with health challenges

CEBU, Philippines — The Philippine National Police recently launched in Central Visayas their newest program dubbed as Love and Blessings (LAB) program to support members with health challenges across Central Visayas.

In a press statement posted in their Facebook page, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 said that the LAB Virus Program is designed to offer emotional support and practical assistance to PNP personnel and their families dealing with health issues.

This initiative, the PRO-7 noted, is driven by the OLC Foundation Inc. that is in accordance with the PNP's “commitment to fostering empathy and solidarity within its community.”

Mary Rose Marbil, the national adviser of the PNP Officers Ladies Club Foundation Inc. and wife of PNP chief PGEN Rommel Francisco Marbil, said during the program’s launch at PRO-7 that the LAB Virus program is more than just a program but a movement dedicated to caring for the PNP Family.

In line with this, PRO-7 disclosed that the program has already made an impact by providing financial assistance and healthcare resources to 20 of their personnel who are currently facing health challenges.

PRO-7 regional director Police Brigadier General Anthony Aberin expressed his appreciation to the OLC Foundation Inc. for the generous support to the whole police force.

Aberin emphasized that this assistance not only delivers immediate relief but also embodies the compassion and unity that define their community.

“This support is more than a helping hand. It represents the compassion and solidarity of our community. We hope it brings comfort and relief to our members during their challenging times and reinforces their sense of being valued and cared for by the organization," Aberin added.

Meanwhile, PRO-7 culminated the 30th National Crime Prevention Month by honoring the bravery of fallen heroes and by engaging the youth in crime prevention efforts.

Led by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM)-7, the program this year carried the theme: “Kabataan Tara na, sa Crime Prevention Kaisa Ka!”,

The whole-week event served as an opportunity for the PNP to recall and honor the bravery of their fallen comrades in the police force, as well as the government’s efforts to raise awareness and promote crime prevention among the youth.

During the program held at Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO), gallantry awards were given to the bereaved families of the police force's fallen heroes.

Aberin, through PCOL Robert Lingbawan, chief of Regional Community Affairs and Development Division-7, said the laudable contribution of the gallantry awardees is an embodiment that they strive to uphold the rule of law for the attainment of peace in nation building.

Aberin also expressed his gratitude to the NAPOLCOM-7, headed by its regional director Edman Pares; the Department of the Interior and Local Government; and to all the personnel involved who took part in the successful conduct of National Crime Prevention Week.

“Our initiatives encompass a wide range of strategies and activities aimed at reducing criminal activities, enhancing public safety, and fostering a sense of security among youth and the whole Central Visayas community, in general,” he added.

The program also concluded with a presentation of awards and certifications to the NAPOLCOM exam topnotchers and NCPW partner agencies. —/ATO (FREEMAN)