Luvimin, Kidapawan City (January 3, 2021) – Military officials, police officers, local chief executives, and other stakeholders convened today along with provincial officials during the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Meeting held at Brgy. Luvimin, Kidapawan City.
PPOC Chair Governor Nancy A. Catamco said the provincial government is working hand in hand with other stakeholders and partner agencies and organizations to address insurgencies, noting how the Nagkakaisang Adhikain para sa Cotabateños Local Serbisyo Caravan has transformed conflict-affected barangays in the province into better communities, despite the pandemic.
The PPOC Chair also thanked and congratulated all sectors who have been, in one way or another, become part of the present administration’s peace efforts and initiatives which were able to “cultivate public trust and inspire people’s confidence” in the government.
Decreased crime incidence
Based on the report presented by PNP Provincial Director PCol. Henry B. Villar, crime incidents in the province has decreased in the last quarter of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. A significant decrease in carnapping of motorcycles was recorded from 19 incidents in 2019 to zero (0) incident while only one (1) carnapped motor vehicle in 2020.
Although murder incident increased by 1 from 8 to 9 in 2020, robbery and theft incidents, on the hand, decreased by 76% and 67% respectively.
Villar said, the “remarkable crime rate decrease in the province was due to the relentless effort made by all line units of CPPO in partnership with LGUs and the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies”.
The police official also noted that the recent roadside bombing in Tulunan town on January 27, 2021 which according to the said PNP report killed one (1) civilian, injured four (4) others was an isolated case and security forces remain on top of the situation.
In relation to this, a resolution for LGUs to implement the mandatory installation of CCTV cameras in all establishments was passed to thwart criminals and lawlessness.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Army has assured their continued support to the peace and security programs of the province, their intensified peace campaign, and the conduct of peace-building activities in their area of responsibilities.
During the meeting, the council also approved the resolution authorizing Governor Catamco to utilize the confidential and peace and order fund of Php97.7M for Calendar Year 2021.
As Governor Catamco remains optimistic that the year 2021 will be a better year for the province of Cotabato, she also urged the public to maintain the “same degree of vigilance and cooperation from partners in peace and progress” towards a more peaceful and dynamic province.//pgo-idcd//
