Marking the beginning of April with a significant step toward modernization, the Philippine National Police (PNP), led by PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., formally conducted the blessing of newly acquired equipment on April 1, 2026. The event was held at the PNP National Headquarters, Camp BGen Rafael T Crame in Quezon City, under the Capability Enhancement Program (CEP) FY 2025 and the Congress-Introduced Changes and Adjustments (CICA) FY 2024.
The ceremony was attended by key PNP officials, including Police Lieutenant General Bernard M. Banac, Deputy Chief PNP for Administration; PLtGen Edgar Alan O. Okubo, Deputy Chief PNP for Operations; and PLtGen Neri Vincent D. Ignacio, Chief of the Directorial Staff, along with members of the Directorial Staff, Crame-based directors, and representatives from the media.
The newly acquired assets, amounting to Php 506,996,656.00, highlight the PNP’s ongoing modernization efforts. Under CEP FY 2025, the acquisitions include 800 sets of Civil Disturbance Management equipment, 3,711 all-purpose waistcoat vests, 600 sets of non-lethal equipment, and 403 units of auto-gated night vision devices. Meanwhile, under CICA FY 2024, PNP received 117 units of 4×4 personnel carrier vehicles and 71 light motorcycles to boost mobility and operational reach.
These resources are expected to significantly improve the operational capability, mobility, and protection of PNP personnel in the performance of their duties. More importantly, these assets will reinforce the capabilities of Tourist Police Units nationwide, strengthening crime prevention efforts and increasing police visibility in key areas.
“This will enhance the capability of our police units to prevent focused crimes in their respective areas. Ang mga kagamitang ito ay makakatulong upang mas mapalakas ang ating police visibility at response, pati na rin sa pagpapabuti ng patrolling at proteksyon sa ating tourism industry,” said Police General Nartatez.
On the same day, the PNP Chief conducted inspections and visits to transport terminals, churches, and other vital installations across Metro Manila as part of intensified security measures for Holy Week. He made sure that sufficient police deployment, visibility patrols, and assistance centers were in place to safeguard travelers and devotees.
Also present during the inspections were Police Major General Anthony A. Aberin, Regional Director, NCRPO; PBGen Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Acting Director for Operations; PBGen Arnold E. Abad, District Director of the Manila Police District PBGen Randy Glenn Silvio, District Director of the Quezon City Police District; and PBGen Randulf T. Tuaño, Chief PIO, along with other PNP officials.
Meanwhile, during the traditional Monday Flag Raising Ceremony on April 6, the PNP Top Cop emphasized the values that contributed to the success of Holy Week operations: commitment, confidence, coordination, and collaboration.
“Let me commend all of you for your performance during Semana Santa. Overall, Holy Week was generally peaceful across the country, with no major incidents reported. That result is not accidental—it is the result of your presence, your vigilance, your confidence, and commitment on the ground. Kayo ang dahilan kung bakit naging ligtas ang Semana Santa ng ating mga kababayan,” he stated.
He also acknowledged the vital support from partner agencies, local government units (LGUs), and community groups, emphasizing that effective public service requires collective effort and shared responsibility.
As the organization enters the second quarter of the year, PGen Nartatez highlighted the PNP’s strong operational performance during the first quarter. Over 22,000 individuals were arrested in the campaign against wanted persons, including 6,200 most wanted individuals and 16,000 other wanted persons.
In the fight against illegal drugs, authorities seized illegal substances worth Php11 Billion and arrested 16,784 individuals. Anti-smuggling efforts resulted in the confiscation of smuggled goods valued at Php2.9 Billion, while intensified efforts against loose firearms led to the seizure of 9,338 firearms and the arrest of 2,921 individuals involved. Notably, focused crimes decreased by 832 cases, a 9.2% drop from approximately 9,000 cases recorded during the same period last year.
“These aren’t just numbers, they represent safer communities, crimes solved and prevented, and lives protected,” the PNP Chief emphasized.
Despite these achievements, he reminded all PNP personnel to remain vigilant and committed, stating: “Hindi tayo dapat makampante. The work does not stop here. We must stay focused, remain sharp, and continue building on the gains we have made.”
With the summer season underway and travel expected to increase, PNP will sustain its security operations through maximum police visibility, regular patrols, and a strong presence in key areas like tourist spots, major roads, and public places, in close coordination with LGUs.
“Always remember that accountability is paramount in every action to earn the trust of the people. Let us continue to serve with justice, fairness, and excellence as we build a Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman,” Police General Nartatez concluded.
