MARIVELES, Bataan- The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group here led by Chief Inspector Rommel C. Labalan, CIDG provincial officer, has been conducting self defense trainings to barangay watchmen (Tanod), the first such kind of laudable initiative by the CIDG in the province.
Himself a martial arts expert, Major Labalan said that aside from teaching self defense, they are also teaching the tanods in the proper execution of civilian arrest in their own barangay, saying they had started their training in Barangay Lucanin.
“Dahil risky rin kasi ang papel ng mga tanod na nagsisilbing tagapangasiwa ng kapayaan sa mga barangay ay dapat lamang silang turuan ng konting self defense para maipagtanggol nila ang kanilang sarili oras na may mga law breakers,” pointed out Labalan.
He said that giving them (tanod) importance and training will make them more inspired as peace keepers in their own barangay, saying this is also part of the CIDG’s campaign in public relations to win the trust and sympathy of the public.
“Of course, the tanod will also become supportive to the CIDG in intelligence gathering, giving information to the whereabouts of wanted persons and lawless elements hiding in their areas,” said Labalan.
Meanwhile, the policemen in this town led by Supt. Raynold Rosero have also been conducting “Dalaw sa Barangay” (barangay visitation) in their bid to bring the PNP closer to the public. Col. Rosero said that they have been able to conduct visitations in barangays Maligaya, Lucanin, Malaya, Biaan, Alion and Townsite.
The actions of Major Labalan and Col. Rosero came at a time when the PNP leadership is being rocked by corruption, ‘hulidap’ and highly controversial issues, demoralizing the PNP.
