More cops eyed to enhance force

CEBU, Philippines - The Dumaguete City Police Advisory Council (DCAC) on Saturday approved nine resolutions for the enhancement of the police force in maintaining peace and order in Dumaguete City.

In its first meeting, the DCAC headed by Dr. Henry Sojor, approved a resolution requesting the Police Regional Office-Region 18 (Negros Island Region) for additional policemen in the city, as part of the plan to establish at least six police substation in the city's strategic places.

The first substation was established last year at Barangay Cadawinonan. Every substation requires at least 21 police personnel, a mobile vehicle, and two motorcycles.

At present the city has a total police force of 102 serving a population of more than 300,000 during day time, or a ratio of one policeman for every 3,000 individuals.

According to Superintendent Jovito Atanacio, Dumaguete City Police chief, the ideal ratio is one policeman for every 500 to 700 individuals.

Another resolution was addressed to the city government to increase the allowance of police personnel from P600 to P2,000. The DCAC got reports that some policemen would refuse to be assigned to Dumaguete City due to the  meager allowance, while doing a 12-hour shift workload. (BANAT NEWS)