US cops in Phl to train PNP men

MANILA, Philippines - Law enforcers from the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) are due in Manila today to conduct training programs with their counterparts in the Philippine National Police and visit police stations in Metro Manila and other regions.

The SFPD trip, its eighth since year 2000, is part of the exchange training and educational program with the PNP.

Established in April 1999, the program resulted in the formation of the Philippine Exchange Training Team.

Director Danilo Abarzosa, chief of the PNP Directorate for Human Resources and Doctrine Development, said the delegation, headed by Lt. Eric Quema, will hold seminars and lectures on tactical skills, crime scene investigation and terrorism awareness.

Among the backers of the program is Philippine Airlines, which had flown the team in its past visits. Last year, the national flag carrier gave the US security experts extra baggage allowance to bring paraphernalia for use in their training.       

PAL president and COO Jaime Bautista said that apart from promoting tourism, the airline also wants to actively assist in efforts to improve the capability of Filipino law enforcers.