Bicol police, security providers move to enhance community safety

LEGAZPI CITY – Police Regional Office – Bicol (PRO5) chief Brig. Gen. Andre P. Dizon met with private security service providers in the region early this week and discussed collective efforts to enhance measures in maintaining peace and order and promoting community safety.

On Thursday, Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, said the meeting on Tuesday brought together 52 security agencies to strengthen ties among them and with the police and ensure public safety.

"The meeting was very important since they are our partners in ensuring the safety of the people as well as the properties. They were able to discuss concerns, plans, and insights that will help harmoniously enforce the law in maintaining peace and order in the region," Calubaquib said in an interview.

She said various topics including the registration and licensing of private security agencies were extensively discussed.

"They also went over the penalties for violating the guidelines outlined in RA (Republic Act) 11917, which is commonly known as the "Private Security Services Industry Act." The goal is to establish high-quality standards that ensure the competency of private security personnel and professionals," Calubaquib said.

She added that the dialogue, aside from aiming to ensure public safety, also wanted to promote employment and business opportunities for agencies.

Meanwhile, operatives arrested four high-value individuals and seized P3.4 million worth of shabu in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Tara, Sipocot, Camarines Sur on Wednesday evening.

In a report on Thursday, Calubaquib identified the suspects as Sam, 52; Lian, 47; Ed, 47; and Noy, a minor, all residents of the said village.

"During the operation, a total of 500 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P3.4 million was confiscated from the four high-value individuals. The drug items were concealed in two knot-tied transparent plastic sachets," she said.

PRO5 vows to intensify its efforts in combating the proliferation of illegal drugs in the region.

Likewise, drug awareness education initiatives will be stepped up to raise community awareness and deter individuals from engaging in drug-related activities. (PNA)