Cop’s transformation program supported

CAMP KANGLEON, Palo, Leyte – The implementation of the Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) of the Philippine National Police in its vision to reach its goal for a genuine change of transforming the entire organization was welcomed and fully supported by the entire PNP force in the region under the leadership of PNP Regional Director Chief Superintendent Abner Cabalquinto.

On Wednesday, the executive director of the Program Management Office (PMO) of the ITP, who is also the Deputy Director General for Administration, Chief Superintendent Jesus Versoza and other top ranking officials from Camp Crame led the symbolic 10th leg transformation torch run relay bearing the theme: “Running the race towards genuine transformation.”

The torch run aims to bring the symbol of reform to the 17 police regional offices across the country and create a candid awareness of the various projects under the ITP. The torch has already traveled almost 2,000 kms. covering the 10 police regional offices, and Region 7 will be the 11th police regional office where the torch run relay will be held.

Versoza, who is being pushed to be the country’s next PNP chief, said in his message that the PNP transformation torch is “envisioned to blaze a path of positive change in the PNP to make it capable, effective and credible which will meet the needs of the Filipino people.”

During the briefing, it was emphasized that the entire PNP is not only ready to achieve reforms under the ITP but has been seriously working to finish its target for year 2015.

One major project that is now being given attention by the management of this transformation program is the quartering and shelter program of the members of the PNP because, according to data released, 56.8 percent of policemen have no house or 68,100 out of total strength of the PNP has no house or decent shelter.

President Arroyo has recently announced the immediate release of P300 million to finance the ongoing housing development sites for PNP staff who have no house of their own.

Housing projects for the members of the PNP are presently being built in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan and Santo Tomas, Batangas.

The health care project is another of the major program under ITP which can now help the PNP personnel avail of accessible, quality and responsive health care services in chosen government tertiary hospitals without spending a single centavo, after a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Health. Hospital expenses will be reimbursed by DOH retained hospitals directly from the PNP.

Versoza also said that the project that brings reforms to the grassroots level under the so-called “model police station” will showcase police reforms in terms of upgraded facilities and highly trained and motivated personnel.

The Program Management Office has already identified pilot areas for the model police station such as Marikina City, Aklan and the Islamic City of Marawi.