PNP eyes more security, disaster response training for barangay tanod
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is eyeing more training programs for barangay security officers, or locally referred to as barangay tanod, in a bid to maximize the implementation of peace and order measures across the country.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., said he already tasked all chiefs of police to strengthen coordination with the barangays in the conduct of training and other programs that will also include disaster and other emergency response.
Nartatez emphasized the importance of equipping barangay security officers with skills as they are they are the frontliners of peace and order-related matters in the community,
“The Philippine National Police considers barangay security officers as partners in peace and order and law enforcement. This has been a tried and tested partnership in effective anti-crime operations over the years,” said Nartatez.
“As our community partners, we have the responsibility to ensure that they are equipped with proper knowledge and skills to ensure that their mandate is done properly and to ensure their safety,” he added.
Nartatez said the training programs will definitely strengthen the barangay security officers’ capability in dealing with law offenders, in gathering important information in the barangay against criminal elements, and in responding to all emergency situations.
Part of the training program that the PNP wants to strengthen is on basic safety and proper procedure in dealing with law offenders, basic intelligence-gathering and disaster and other emergency and life-saving responses.
“As first responders in almost all emergency situations in the barangay, we might as well strengthen their capability on basic peace and order matters that include anti-crime measures and even the preservation of a crime scene,” said Nartatez.
He said the chiefs of police are tasked to coordinate with the local government units (LGUs) on this matter.