PNP, military ink pact for joint operations

ORMOC CITY, Philippines – Top officials of the police and the military here yesterday signed a memorandum of agreement for joint intelligence work for the anti-criminality and anti-insurgency campaigns.

The MOA was signed by Sr. Supt. Nilo Donayre, Ormoc City Police director, and Lt. Col. Federico Tutaan, commander of the Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion, in the presence of Ormoc City Mayor Eric Codilla.

The pact, which took effect yesterday, enhanced the commitment of the police and the military to the newly created Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) here.

According to the provisions of the MOA, the police would be the lead agency in the drive against criminality and lawless elements, with the military in an active support role. Then on the anti-insurgency campaign, the military would be the lead agency with the police assuming the supporting role.

It was also stated in the agreement that consultation with stakeholders shall be the guiding principle in addressing peace and order concerns.

Mayor Eric Codilla, for his part, committed to help both parties in accordance with the MOA.

The mayor further announced, during the signing, that his administration has planned to transfer Police Station 1 from its present site to the old City Hall.

“After renovating the old City Hall in accordance with specifications for a police station, our personnel (police) and clients will have a spacious place to work in,” he said.