Australia Boosts PNP Efforts to Combat Terrorism
The Philippine National Police received a boost to its anti-terrorism capacity and capability from the Australian Government with a PHP 12-million grant package for intelligence training, equipment, vehicle and refurbishment of facilities.
Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely led the ceremonial turnover to Police Director General Oscar D Albayalde to support the Mindanao Area Police Intelligence Office (MAPIO) Enhancement Project in Davao. “We know that this project, delivered through the Australian Federal Police, will assist the MAPIO in a direct and practical way," said the Ambassador. “This is part of our continued collaboration with PNP and support the Philippines in its fight against terrorism.”
The MAPIO enhancement project was Australia’s response to a request by the former Police Director General of the PNP for support to rebuild intelligence capabilities to counter terrorism threats. The package of assistance includes facilities upgrade, new equipment and vehicle, and capacity building. Through the project, MAPIO will be able to expand its cadre of civilian analysts with emphasis on diversity and technical skills.
This is not the first time the Australian Government has provided support to the PNP in Mindanao. The longstanding relationship dates back ten years when Australia funded the construction of the MAPIO building, and the establishment of the bomb data center and forensic laboratory located at the headquarters of Police Regional Office XI in Camp Catitipan.
In addition to providing infrastructure, Australia's assistance over the years has included developing technical and surveillance capabilities of law enforcement agencies, intelligence collection and analysis, analysis of post blast components and bombing techniques, and forensic and other skills particularly related to combating terrorism.
“Australia and the Philippines have a history of successful cooperation in law enforcement. So I am pleased that we are able to turn-over this equipment and vehicle during Philippines-Australia Friendship Week in Davao, where we are celebrating the enduring friendship between our countries,” said Ambassador Gorely.
The Davao City Government declared 21 to 27 May as Philippines-Australia Friendship Week in Davao in recognition of the enduring friendship between the two countries.
For more information on Philippines – Australia Friendship Day celebration, visitwww.philippines.embassy.gov.au. Like Australia in the Philippines on Facebook and follow @AusAmbPH on Twitter, @AusEmbPH on Instagram.