Bacolod police receive PHP6.5 million SWAT vans

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The city government has turned over two newly acquired Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) vans worth PHP 6.5 million to the Bacolod City Police Office to strengthen its peace and order operations.

Mayor Greg Gasataya handed a symbolic key to Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, director of the BCPO, during a turnover ceremony held Wednesday at the Bacolod City Government Center grounds.

Gasataya said in a media interview that this is the first time the city has procured SWAT vans for the police force.

He emphasized that SWAT personnel previously used ordinary patrol vehicles during critical missions, which limited their protection and operational efficiency.

“With this development, they will be able to protect themselves and boost their capabilities,” Gasataya said.

Coronica thanked the city government for its continued support in enhancing the BCPO’s operational readiness and commitment to public safety.

“This, in a way, will boost the morale of our SWAT personnel,” he said.

He explained that SWAT officers are trained to respond to man-made crises, including hostage situations and high-risk law enforcement operations.

“They are the final resort and are ready to face bullets in critical operations,” Coronica added.

The BCPO has also requested additional tactical gear from the city government, including ammunition and ballistic shields, to further equip its SWAT teams.

According to the BCPO, the new SWAT vans will greatly enhance the mobility and response capability of the city police force in addressing security threats, emergency scenarios, and other public safety concerns.