PNP, AFP prepare for all-out war vs communist insurgency

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are gearing up for an all-out war against communist rebels, in line with President Arroyo’s order to end the 37-year-old insurgency.

Newly installed PNP chief Deputy Director General Oscar Calderon said the PNP plans to enlist an additional 4,000 police recruits at the second semester of 2006 to partially meet the PNP’s manpower requirements to better implement the government’s anti-insurgency campaign.

In preparation for the police’s more aggressive role in internal security operations, the PNP will allocate part of its P300 million funds for legal offensive, intelligence operations, community relations activities, training and procurement of mission essential equipment, Calderon said.

"This strategic shift requires that we strengthen our coordination with the Regional Peace and Order Councils to develop better cooperation with concerned sectors in the anti-insurgency campaign," he added.

The PNP chief has instructed all police commanders to ensure that their subordinates are consistently reminded of basic courtesy and discipline, which include wearing of proper and complete uniform when on duty. All PNP personnel must also strictly follow rules and regulations.

Calderon said he would strengthen and provide additional support to the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) and urged PNP regional directors to follow him and initiate similar programs with their regional IAS.

"The President directed us to map up plans on how we (in the PNP) could actively participate in the anti-insurgency campaign in coordination with AFP," Calderon said.

He said PNP officials plan to hold a meeting with the AFP and other government agencies.

Meanwhile, Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno said Mrs. Arroyo’s executive order on the government’s anti-insurgency campaign would be known within next week.

Puno said the government would not be offensive and territorial in their anti-insurgency campaign.

"We will not be offensive, we will be defensive. We will not be territorial. The highlight of the program would be community relations, intensified activity linking up with LGUs (local government units)," Puno said.

"The idea is to get LGUs to assist the PNP in the counter insurgency campaign. The project would also involve construction of roads, daycare centers, and other facilities," he added.

"With the joint discussion, we will be able to help better by letting us know who are these people. We can share information. You can never go wrong talking to people and consulting them," said Puno.