QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Old and worn out police stations all over the country are being refurbished under Dignity, a joint project of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In San Manuel, Isabela, an entirely new three-storey police station was built at a cost of P4.6 million. It was inaugurated recently by Regional Director Mario Iringan of DILG Region II.
DILG Secretary Mar Roxas said that apart from constructing new buildings his department is also set to upgrade the facilities of all police stations nationwide. He added that P170 million has been set aside for the repair, enlargement and modernization of old buildings.
He said police commanders can access amounts ranging from P100,000 to P250,000 depending on their requirements. He added the primary purpose is to improve the image of the police organization and bring dignity to its personnel.
According to Roxas, the San Manuel police station, which accommodates a 28-member police force is expected to face and live up to the challenge of Mayor Mike Carlos Dy III to implement a no-nonsense peace and order campaign in the locality.
He said he expects the men and women of the police force to go after members of criminal gangs in the area.
“I want to see the arrest of kidnappers, drug and gambling lords,” Roxas said. “If anybody says he or she enjoys the protection of high government officials, I am telling you, as far as I’m concerned, that is a lie. I want to see it in your records that you have arrested dangerous criminals, and don’t tell me you have failed to do so because this or that man has a pipeline to my office.
“Just do your jobs,” he added. “I’m solidly behind you.”
