AFP, cops hold convergence

The Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Directorate for Integrated Police Operation, Eastern Mindanao (DIPO-EM) of the Philippine National Police (AFP) pledged to work hand in hand in addressing pressing security concern in their jurisdiction.

Eastmicom commander Lieutenant Commander Benjamin Madrigal Jr. in a press conference during the Joint Command Conference at Grand Menseng Hotel, Davao City yesterday said this activity is a manifestation of that the AFP and PNP are proactive in converging their efforts to enhance cooperation.

The two major security agencies agreed through a Joint Letter Directive to work, back to back, hand in hand in fighting insurgency, maintaining the territorial integrity, securing the different government flagship projects, terrorism, anti-criminality and anti-drug campaign.

The convergence of AFP and PNP units’ head and staff at different levels which are headed by Madrigal and Police Chief Superintendent Daniel Ma- catlang Jr., Director, DIPO-EM was anchored on the common objective of attaining peace and security in eastern Mindanao.

Madrigal underscored the recent accomplishments in his area of responsibility in addressing insurgency with the decreasing number of strength of the New People’s Army (NPA), number of firearms recovered and cleared barangays from communist affectation.

This is an avenue where they could share best practices to develop proper coordination in terms of law enforcement. /