Iloilo city: The city government has delivered six additional patrol vehicles to the local police, finalizing its commitment of providing a total of 12 patrol vehicles as part of the Department of the Interior and Local Government's 'buy 1, give 1' initiative. This move aims to strengthen the local police's operational capacity.

According to Philippines News Agency, the distribution of vehicles saw four allocated to the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), while the Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) received one each. Mayor Raisa Tre±as highlighted that these new patrol cars would enhance the police force's readiness, especially with Iloilo City set to host one of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit meetings next year.

The patrol cars, valued at PHP9.75 million, are expected to significantly improve the local police's mobility and response times during emergencies. The first set of six patrol cars was previously distributed to the ICPO on September 29.

ICPO Director Col. Kim Legada acknowledged the support, stating that since he took office in August last year, the city police have received 15 patrol cars and a van for the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit. He also mentioned that additional motorcycles are anticipated to arrive next year.

"This will boost our operational capability, and our police personnel will be more visible on the streets, especially this holiday season, the Dinagyang Festival, and the ASEAN meetings that will be held here in Iloilo City," said Legada.

In addition to the patrol vehicles, the city government was also granted one patient transport vehicle from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, further enhancing the city's emergency response capabilities.