Dubai: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has recognized the exemplary performance of its Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team which finished 25th out of 103 elite tactical teams from around the world in the UAE SWAT Challenge 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on Feb. 6.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP deputy chief for operations Lt. Gen. Robert Rodriguez led the special recognition for the PNP SWAT contingent for their significant achievement in a ceremony held at the PNP Star Lounge, Camp Crame on Wednesday.
The PNP Special Action Force garnered a total of 334 points to secure 25th place, a significant improvement from its 34th finish in 2024 and 45th spot in 2023 editions of the competition which aims to foster an exchange of tactical techniques and skills among international SWAT teams around the world.
China Police Team B and C won the gold and bronze medals with 480 and 457 points, respectively, while Kazakhstan's Sunkar team bagged the silver medal with 470 points.
The 6th edition of the UAE SWAT Challenge has entered the Guinness World Record for hosting the most significant number of participants in a SWAT competition, with 46 nations represented.
The PNP SWAT team has been awarded the Medalya ng Kasanayan in recognition of the skill, resilience, and dedication they showed in the prestigious UAE SWAT Challenge which started in 2019.
"Your performance on the international stage brings immense pride to the Philippine National Police and our country,' PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said in his message read by Rodriguez.
'It is a clear reflection of our continuous efforts to elevate our tactical capabilities to match global standards. More than that, your participation has allowed us to forge stronger bonds with law enforcement agencies worldwide, exchange knowledge, and adopt best practices that will further enhance our operational effectiveness,' he added.
The UAE SWAT Challenge tests the capabilities of the world's top tactical units in high-pressure scenarios, evaluating their precision, teamwork, adaptability, and operational excellence.
Marbil said the PNP's steady rise in the competition reflects its ongoing commitment to enhancing its tactical proficiency and international competitiveness.
'With this achievement, the PNP reaffirms its dedication to upholding public safety and security at the highest standards, strengthening global law enforcement partnerships, and continuously improving its operational effectiveness,' Marbil said.
