PNP Multi-Purpose Hall, Camp Crame, Quezon City
2 July 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the ceremonial distribution of Glock 17 Pistols to Philippine National Police (PNP) officers, prompting the end of short firearms shortage for the country’s police force.

In his speech, the President imparted that the occasion typifies the government’s aim to reach a 1:1 police-to-pistol ratio. “Katumbas nga po ng pagpapaunlad natin sa inyong kapasidad, ang pag-aangat natin sa kalidad ng inyong serbisyo sa sambayanan,” he said.

A total of P1.2 billion had been allocated for the purchase of some 74,879 handguns but the national police was able to save at least P200 million from their winning bidder, Trust Trade.

President Aquino also expressed his appreciation to the PNP’s efforts to alleviate crime volume which was down to 217,812 last year compared to 319,441 in 2010. Additionally, there has been a reduction of 40% in carnapping incident rates, a 73% reduction in kidnapping-for-ransom and a 63% reduction in the number of private armed groups.

Joining the President during the event were Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas III and PNP Director-General Alan Purisima.

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