The city government on Monday turned over six patrol vehicles to the local police to complete its commitment of 12 patrol vehicles in line with the “buy 1, give 1” program of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Four of the patrol cars were for the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) while the Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) got one each.

In her message, Mayor Raisa Treñas said the patrol cars will boost the capability of the police force in time for Iloilo City’s hosting of one of the meetings for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next year.

The vehicles, with a total value of PHP9.75 million, are expected to enhance the mobility of the local police in maintaining peace and order, and enable faster responses in times of emergencies.

The first batch of six patrol cars was released to ICPO on Sept. 29.

ICPO Director Col. Kim Legada said the city police has already received 15 patrol cars and a van for the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit since he assumed office in August last year.

He said they also expect to receive new motorcycles next year.

“This will boost our operational capability, and our police personnel will be more visible on the streets, especially this holiday season, the Dinagyang Festival, and the ASEAN meetings that will be held here in Iloilo City,” Legada said.

During the ceremony, the city government also received one patient transport vehicle from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. (PNA)