Makati wants stopgap measures vs street crimes

MANILA, Philippines - Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay thanked the Philippine National Police (PNP) yesterday for its decision to add 346 new recruits to boost the city’s police force, which that has been reeling from a surge in street crimes.

However, Binay also asked that the PNP implement interim measures considering that the 346 new recruits will finish their training by next year.

“We welcome the additional deployment of policemen to Makati. At the same time, we hope the PNP would consider interim measures to improve crime deterrence and police response,” he said.

Earlier, PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore Sindac said the Makati police’s current strength of 548 members would be boosted by rookies who still have to complete their training next year.

Four non-uniformed personnel will also be added the Makati police, Sindac added.

Binay earlier asked the PNP for additional police officers because of the recurring robberies victimizing pedestrians and commuters in the city, with the latest reported on Gil Puyat and Chino Roces Avenues.

According to Sindac, Makati has a current population of 529,039 and a police-to-population ratio of 1:796. It has an estimated transient daytime population of 4.7 million, being host to the country’s premier financial and commercial hub.

The PNP currently has 148,000 policemen for a national population of 100 million, for a ratio of 1:675. The ideal is 1:500.