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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP-SAF, 81 foreign rivals clash in Dubai SWAT competition

PNP-SAF, 81 foreign rivals clash in Dubai SWAT competition

Published Feb 2, 2024 07:21 am

DILG LOGO (MB FILE PHOTO )

The 84th Special Action Company-Rapid Deployment Battalion of the Philippine National Police (PNP) will compete against 81 other police forces in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) Challenge slated from Feb. 3 to 7.

In a statement, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)  said that the UAE SWAT Challenge, hosted by the Dubai Police, is an annual competition organized to foster an exchange of tactical techniques and skills among international SWAT teams.

With mental sharpness and physical endurance of participants being highlighted, the tenacity and skills of the 13-man strong Philippine contingent will be tested against other SWAT team competitors from 70 countries through a gauntlet of tactical and operational challenges.

As a token of support, DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur’’ Abalos Jr. pledged P50,000 for each member of the Special Action Force (SAF) delegation.

In a message, Abalos urged the local delegation “to always reach for the pinnacle of excellence” and learn from the best in the world as they represent the country in the 2024 UAE SWAT Dubai Police Challenge.

“This team will symbolize our country. You are the best of the best. Iba ang tapang, galing, at puso ng Pilipino (The bravery, excellence, and heart of a Filipino is a cut above the rest),” Abalos said.

Abalos expressed hope that the competition will not only be centered around winning but also for the improvement of the local cops' prowess in ensuring peace and order in our communities. 

“Life is a continuous learning process. A good way of learning is being exposed to international competitions. This is where we gauge our ability, this is where we establish our current benchmark,” Abalos pointed out.

Abalos told the local delegation to take note of the advancements made by other countries as “this will not only help bolster ours but will also be instrumental in saving lives in the future."

The DILG chief also prodded the delegates to “carry not only their families and communities in this competition, but the whole country and its pride as well.”

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