By Jezza A. Nepomoceno

Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr. approved P1.4 million yesterday to fund ballistic equipment for the Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO) special weapons and tactics (SWAT) team.
“This is a token of partnership to develop the competency of our SWAT team,” said IPPO Director, Police Senior Superintendent Harold Tuzon.
The allocations will be used in providing level three ballistic shields, tactical carrier vests, and ballistic helmets.
IPPO has already indicated their intentions to request additional funding for high-powered firearms and special-designed ballistic solutions.
General Services Office (GSO) chief Aaron Raymundo pointed out IPPO previously requested P3 million in assistance, but funds were limited.
“Instead of purchasing all that had been requested, the governor asked them to select the items that must be given priority,” he explained.
Each of the level three ballistic shields cost the government P35,000, while the tactical carrier vest and ballistic helmet were pegged at P60,000 and P18,000, respectively.
According to the provincial government, this year’s peace and order fund is P200 million./WDJ