Talisay City launches 8-man SWAT team

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Police Office has officially activated its eight-man team of the district Special Weapons and Tactics to respond to crimes and terrorist threats in Talisay City and Minglanilla town.

Police Regional Office-7 Director Chief Superintendent Prudencio Bañas, said he will request for long firearms to be issued to the elite SWAT team to make them well-equipped.

“I appreciate the realization of this district SWAT and I thank the government of Talisay City,” Bañas said.

The team is tasked to respond to the rising level of crimes in Talisay City and Minglanilla town reportedly due to urbanization.

The SWAT team can also respond to any alarm in nearby police stations.

The elite policemen underwent training on counter-terrorism, high risk arrest, and hostage rescue at the Regional Public Safety Company in Sibonga town. They all underwent a screening process and rigid 45-day training.

Cebu Provincial Police Office Director Noel Gillamac said that the SWAT personnel are physically and mentally fit.

He added that soon, the cities of Bogo, Toledo, Carcar and Danao will also have their own SWAT units.

Talisay City Mayor Johnny de los Reyes said that activation of the SWAT in the city can boost the trust and confidence of investors knowing that they are protected well by the police.

“Nalipay ko kay for how many years karon lang dunay SWAT sa Talisay unya ang mga businessmen confident na nga mububo ug puhunan nganhi,” De los Reyes told The FREEMAN.

De los Reyes admitted that they spent an estimated worth of P200,000 for the SWAT team’s uniforms alone. They are also in the process of acquiring the team’s weapons and other equipments.

Last month, Naga City also activated at least 20 young elite SWAT personnel to protect its people against lawless elements and to ensure peace and order in the locality. The SWAT also underwent training to further enhance their tactical skills.

The city government also spent P1.5 million to fund the SWAT training, a week before Superintendent Brindo Nacario assumed as the city’s police chief.  (FREEMAN)