PNP extends probe on helicopter procurement

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) has yet to reveal the results of the investigation into the alleged anomalous procurement of helicopters in 2009.

PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo gave the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) until yesterday to look into the procurement of the alleged secondhand Robinson R44 Raven II and two Robinson R44 Raven I helicopters.

The three helicopters were sold to the PNP as brand new aircraft for P104.9 million but it turned out two of the aircraft were five years old and previously owned.

Some officials of the PNP said the result of the investigation will be made public on Monday.

DIDM chief Director Arturo Cacdac Jr. gave assurance that the investigation will be thorough and all information about the procurement were evaluated.

Senators Panfilo Lacson and Teofisto Guingona III pressed for an investigation on the procurement since the supplier of the helicopters, Manila Aerospace Products Trading Corp. (MAPTRA), made it appear – allegedly with the knowledge of the PNP – that the choppers delivered were brand new.

Lacson said the plan was for the purchase of three light helicopters for the PNP-Special Action Force’s Air Unit. The procurement was planned on May 8, 2009 and the deal awarded on July 9, 2009.

He said that then PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa approved the supply contract worth P104.985 million, prior to the term of Bacalzo.

Bacalzo assured full cooperation on the investigation by the Senate.

“We will be very transparent and we will make available all records that we have on all questions that may arise from that transaction,” he said.

Bacalzo ordered SAF members to refrain from using the helicopters in questions pending the result of the investigation.