By Rene V. Carbayas
JOLO, Sulu – A task force aimed to address security concerns in the province of Sulu will be deployed in Jolo, Indanan and Patikul (JIP) or Metro Jolo, the provincial information chief said.
In a press release, Sonny Y. Abing III, OIC Provincial Information Officer said that the Philippine National Police-PRO ARMM made the announcement after a recent meeting with Sulu Gov. Abdusakur “Totoh” A. Tan II at the Provincial Capitol.
During the meeting, PCSupt Robert O. Kiunisala, PNP Deputy Regional Director for Admin stressed that Metro Jolo Task Force’s main concern is to secure the area covering the JIP, improve the security situation and assure residents of their safety against lawless elements.
The report mentioned some security measures that the task force will implement like the integrated police patrol plan, the conduct of regular inspection and physical accounting of police personnel to ensure police presence and visibility in areas of assignment.
Metro Jolo Task Force JIP is a composite team from the Sulu PNP, RPSB and the Philippine Marines with PSSupt Allan Parreno, PNP Deputy Regional Director for Operations heading the Task Force. One Company from the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) just arrived to reinforce manpower and capability. The 87-man unit is headed by PSSupt Roberto Buyuccan, Batallion Commander (RPSB).
PSSupt Abraham O. Orbita, Sulu PPO Chief expressed confidence that with the additional support unit and a clear security plan of action, improvements on the peace and security situation is expected.
Sulu Gov. Abdusakur "Totoh" A. Tan II made specific instructions to set up detachments where known drug activities are pervasive and conduct regular raids on lairs of known drug pushers.
"This simultaneous approach is very appropriate since drug addicts are the most likely suspects in the series of kidnappings," said the governor.
The security plan was cRrafted upon the instruction of PNP ARMM Regional Director PCSupt Noel O. Delos Reyes after series of consultations with civil service society groups, Governor Tan, Provincial Peace and Order Council, local Police officials and various stakeholders in recent months.
The report also revealed that the Central Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) will also be coming to Sulu to enhance the capability of local investigators.
Meanwhile, newly appointed Jolo Municipal Police Station OIC, PCINSP Junpikar Sitin vowed to do his best to protect Jolo citizens and arrest those who will disturb the peace.
"We will do what is mandated and required, to maintain peace and order in Jolo," Sitin said.