EDITORIAL - Police assistance

It seems the Cebu City government is not yet ready to return the patrol vehicles and firearms that it had recalled from the police force last year. Mayor Tomas Osmeña said his directive has remained although he is still assessing the situation.

To recall, Osmeña had recalled at least 19 patrol cars and 76 firearms, and other city assistance for the police as he was disappointed by the move of the Philippine National Police leadership transferring several of his trusted police officials in the region and city.

Since the city government no longer supported the local police force, the National Police Commission then removed Osmeña's deputation power over the city police as a result. For several months, the city police functioned without the support of the city.

Good thing Osmeña's differences with the police leadership were eventually patched up. His deputation power was back and he started returning some of the City Hall assistance, including the one that helps heighten the war against illegal drugs.

Just recently, the mayor brought back his promise of financial reward for any policeman who neutralizes a drug lord. Osmeña wants the city police force to go all-out against drugs now that the national government allowed the PNP to resume its operation against the illegal trade.

However, since the mayor has already regained his confidence and trust in the local police, it just proper for him to return all those patrol vehicles, firearms and the other City Hall assistance if he wants to boost their operational capabilities.

The success of the city police largely depends on their capability to wage war against crimes. That is why, given their limited resources, they badly need all the necessary logistical upgrades if we want them to keep winning in their campaign.

The city government will definitely own a large part of the blame for any police failure considering its lack of support. If Osmeña is really serious in his effort to keep the city safe from criminals, there's no reason for him to delay the return of those patrol cars, firearms, and other assistance for the police.