Rama dismayed by delay of cops in bikes' activation

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama was dismayed when he learned that the “Motorcycle Cops” of the Cebu City Police Office will not be operational during the opening of classes this June.

The mayor said he already allocated the necessary funding for the purchase of the 44 units of motorcycles for the members of the team, but until now the vehicles are not purchased yet.

He wants City Administrator Jose Mari Poblete, who heads the Bids and Awards Committee, to explain why the purchase of the motorcycles is delayed.

Sought for comment, Poblete told The FREEMAN it was agreed by some of the City Hall officials to reduce the number of motorcycles to be purchased so that the amount that will be saved can be used to buy the needed accessories for the motorcycle-riding policemen, such as radio sets.

“Gituyo unta to nga minosan ang gidaghanon sa motor aron moepektibo ang mga sakop sa motorcycle cops kay duna na man sila’y communication equipment,” Poblete said. When it was bid out, no one participated in the bidding.

Rama however insisted that the 44 units be purchased.

But there will be a need for another bidding that may further delay the transaction.

According to Rama, once the motorcycle cops are finally activated, they will be tasked to patrol the city’s streets, particularly the crime-prone areas as one way to improve the peace and order situation of the city.

Rama wanted to meet with CCPO director Melvin Ramon Buenafe and the mayor’s security consultant Romeo Cordova for them to further discuss the duties and functions of the members of the motorcycle cops. (FREEMAN)