DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE Japan turns over equipment to PNP

On February 12, Ambassador Haneda graced the turnover ceremony of the six bomb suits, six ballistic shields, and 442 ballistic helmets to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Director General Oscar Albayalde, PNP chief received the items and expressed his gratitude for Japan’s assistance. This came a little over a year after Japan completed the turnover of 100 patrol cars to the PNP at a ceremony attended by no less than President Duterte himself in January 2018.

The equipment, amounting to P53.3 million, was granted through Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA). They form part of the Japanese government’s continuing effort to help upgrade Philippine law enforcement capabilities.

In his speech, Ambassador Haneda emphasized the need for both countries to join hands in enhancing their collective capabilities in the face of violent extremism, noting that keeping the people safe is a key responsibility of government.

He saluted the PNP for having accomplished much in the area of law enforcement and conveyed Japan’s continuing support.