Rama allows stipend for cops on training

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama has allowed the personnel of the Cebu City Police Office to receive their monthly allowance from the city government even if they are on schooling.

Rama said it is not a problem because going on a training does not change the fact that they are policemen and on call for duty should the need arise.

This means police personnel assigned in CCPO may continue to enjoy P2,000 a month even while they are on schooling.

CCPO director Melvin Ramon Buenafe thanked the mayor for his support to the police. He said this will inspire the police more to do their work.

In return, Buenafe assured the mayor to intensify their efforts and dedication to their work.

“Our support should be an act of gratitude to the mayor,” Buenafe said.

Buenafe earlier requested Rama to allow on training policemen to receive their allowance following a verbal communication from the Budget Office that the city will have to temporarily stop the allowance of policemen who are on schooling because they are not in actual duty.

Buenafe appealed not to cancel the allowance because the policemen need it to defray the expenses they will incur during the training.

Buenafe said that the training is the most crucial time wherein police need the money most due to the many expenses that they will incur like food, projects and also the venue.

The police are on an off-campus status after the Regional Training School was demolished.

Police personnel need to undergo a higher level of training to elevate their rank. Schooling is usually for those who did not undergo four years of training in college. It is a mandatory requirement for promotion.

As of September, there are some 23 Police Non-Commission Officers undergoing Public Safety Junior Leadership Course at the Camp Sergio Osmeña. The training started last August. Another 11 officers are set to undergo the PSJLC soon. (FREEMAN)