The city government of Laoag has formally requested the Philippine National Police to deploy 106 additional officers to meet the ideal 1:500 police-to-population ratio and improve security across its 80 barangays and 64 schools.
Vice Mayor Rey Carlos Fariñas said the current police force is insufficient for the city’s growing needs. Laoag, covering 12,747 hectares, serves as the economic, political, educational and religious center of Ilocos Norte. Its daytime population swells significantly, increasing the demand for law enforcement visibility.
The request was filed with Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. The city cited the need to protect communities, students and educational institutions. The additional personnel would help bolster police presence and response times in the rapidly urbanizing area.
Laoag leaders emphasized that achieving the standard ratio is critical to crime prevention and public safety, especially as the city attracts more people for work, school and commerce.
Article source: theilocostimes.blogspot.com | Image credit: The Ilocos Times
