Japan donates bomb suits, ballistics shields to PNP

February 12, 2019

The Japanese government on Tuesday donated bomb suits and ballistics shields to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to protect themselves during operations on bomb threats. 

In a ceremony at Camp Crame, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda  turned over six  bomb suits, six ballistic shields and 440 ballistics helmets. These will be given to Explosive Ordnance Detection (EOD) Units to protect bomb technicians when responding to emergencies involving explosives.

This additional donation is part of the  500 million yen or P236.5 million foreign aid granted by Japan under the “Economic and Social Development Programme” in support of the counter-terrorism campaign and public safety service.

As peace and order are the topmost priority of President Rodrigo Duterte, Haneda said Japan pledged to cooperate with the Philippines in advancing its institutional capabilities through counter-terrorism and anti- illegal drugs measures.-

He said this is in line with Japan’s continuing support and partnership with PNP.

“Amidst the challenge of violent extremism in the region, it is crucial now more than ever that Japan and the Philippines work together to enhance our collective capabilities keeping in mind that the safety of our people is of paramount importance,” Haneda said in his speech.

Haneda said the PNP can count on Japan extending assistance.

He also lauded the PNP for showing great pride and passion to make a headway for more successful operations in various capacity on drug enforcement, counter-terrorism, VIP securities, community engagement and others.

“While they are setbacks along the way, I’m convinced that under Albayalde’s watch, maintaining peace and order situation in the country is within sight,” said Haneda.

Last year, Japan donated patrol cars being used in the local PNP units nationwide.

Haneda shared that Foreign Minister Taro Kono is pleased his police escort is using patrol cars they donated.

“In the same way, I hope that the bomb suits, ballistics shields and helmets we will turnover today will further build up the defense system of PNP personnel nationwide in their relentlessly to curb terrorist acts and illegal drug abuse,” he added.

PNP Director General Oscar Albayalde said “these new assets will definitely boost he PNP’s capability enhancement program, especially in addressing counter-terrorism and public security issues.''

“I can say, that this donations truly are at the best quality as this underwent research by the Japan International Cooperation System in coordination with the Directorate for Logistics and Directorate for Research and Development to ensure their quality and standard,” he said.

He warned enemies of the state that they will ensure genuine and lasting peace for the Filipino people. 

“We have partners like the Japanese government that is ready to help us achieve this endeavor. We will not back down, but rather we will be firm and be more dedicated to serve and protect our people,” said Albayalde.

The 500 million yen grant was allocated by the Japanese government 2018 to boost police capability and operability. Ella Dionisio/DMS