IBA, Zambales — The Zambales provincial government has strengthened police operational capabilities with the inauguration of a new Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) office and barracks at Camp Conrado D. Yap on Wednesday, Oct. 28.
Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. led provincial officials and police officers at the inauguration, underscoring the importance of discipline, operational readiness and professionalism among members of the elite police unit.
“I am proud now that you have a unit and orders to support you, but I’ll be prouder if you can maintain your discipline and keep silent behind the scenes,” Ebdane said, stressing the need for discretion in police operations.
The new facility is intended to improve the SWAT Team’s operational readiness and support the Zambales Police Provincial Office’s efforts to combat illegal activities and maintain peace and order in the province.
The inauguration included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling of brass markers and blessing of the SWAT office, barracks and PADs, led by Fr. Gerald Pascual. Police personnel also received certificates of commendation and recognition.
The program featured tactical demonstrations, including a bus-entry hostage rescue exercise by the SWAT Team, a building-entry demonstration by the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and a close-quarters battle live-fire exercise by the SWAT Team.
ZPPO Provincial Director PCol. Benjamin Ariola led the police delegation, joined by Deputy Provincial Director for Administration PLtCol. Cresenciano Cordero Jr. and other members of the command group.
Provincial Board Member Rundy Ebdane, Mayor Omar Ebdane, Larraine B. Rico, and Mauren Bitancur, president of the Rotary Club of Iba, also attended the event. The Rotary Club supported the project.
The provincial government said it would provide additional equipment for the SWAT Team and other police units to strengthen law enforcement and improve public safety across Zambales.
The initiative forms part of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to support the police force and enhance its capacity to respond to security threats and emergencies.
