Naga Activates SWAT Team

The City of Naga, Cebu activated on Tuesday its 20-man Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.

Senior Supt. Conrado Capa, deputy director for operations of Police Regional Office-7, described it a “very laudable example of leadership” that is “worthy of emulation.” Capa said SWAT teams should be brought to respective municipalities.

The activation ceremony was highlighted with a demonstration of a close-quarter battle participated by the new SWAT team.

Mayor Valdemar Chiong said the SWAT team will also be helping other local government units that will need its help. The city may not have a high crime rate, but Chiong said this special unit is “to prepare Naga for any eventuality.”

The mayor said by next year, he will include in the annual budget funding for the team’s gear, equipment and trainings needed in their operations. The P10-million new police station will also have a room for the city’s SWAT group.

Meanwhile, Cebu Provincial Police Office Director PSupt. Noel Gillamac turned over a baby armalite as a symbol that the CPPO has its full support to the team.