PNP field training program augments organic elements

By PIA Samar / NBQ
September 4, 2012

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar  –  Some 40 members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) field training program have been augmenting the police organic force in the city of Catbalogan.

In an interview, Catbalogan City Police Superintendent Avelino Doncillo said that these new recruits have been helping out in the crime prevention efforts of the city police.

“This is why we have enhanced police visibility during business hours in the commercial district, then, there is also a 7-man team with a patrol car deployed at the Public Market during ‘market hours’,” the chief told PIA.

“These men have been on hand to fill up security gaps caused by the shortage of organic personnel,” Doncillo said.

Meanwhile, Doncillo said that Catbalogan is generally peaceful.

“The one month fiesta activities and Samar Day went on smoothly with no untoward incident,” he proudly claimed.

One thing though that is bothering the chief is the presence of minors that have been doing petty crimes like cellphone snatching and thievery.

“We have coordination with the City Social Welfare Officer, about these minor offenders but each time, because of the law, they are out there again,” Doncillo lamented.

He suggested that since the present generation have matured earlier that the age of discernment be lowered from 18 to 12.

“I think they know what is right and wrong, at this age.”