Belmonte said BSDOs should be rewarded for their bravery and peacekeeping efforts as they effectively compliment law enforcers in the fight against lawless and criminal elements.
"The police and the BSDOs should work together to deter incidents of criminality in the community. The familiarity of the BSDOs with people in the community will make it easier for the police to determine who among city residents have dubious character," he said. "With proper training, the tanods can be very effective partners of the police in the anti-crime drive."
The mayor underscored the role of the BSDOs in assisting the police in the anti-criminality drive following the arrest of suspected Akyat-Bahay members in Barangay Bahay-Toro last Holy Week following a tip off from a BSDO.
Belmonte has recommended the grant of financial reward to the officer including a citation from Central Police District director Chief Superintendent Napoleon Castro.
Prior to the arrest of suspected Akyat-Bahay members, a gunfight ensued between the gang members and a mobile patrol team from the CPD. The gunfight resulted in the death of one police officer and the wounding of two other CPD lawmen.
The city government has already provided a P30,000 financial assistance to the family of the late police officer.