THE POLICE Regional Office (PRO) XI clarified that the PNP has nothing to do with the controversy and criticism on social media regarding the viral “bao-bao” (three-wheeled vehicle) that was used as a patrol car at the Cateel Municipal Police Station in Davao Oriental.
During the media briefing at the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, PRO XI spokesperson PMAJ Catherine Dela Rey said the Cateel Municipal Government donated the vehicle from its own funds.
This explanation was made after the video and picture of the tricycle or baobao being used by the police received various reactions, comments, and serious comments from netizens.
Dela Rey explained that the vehicle would be used in the Revitalized-Police Sa Barangay (RPSB) Cluster 4 in Cateel, which guards and provides services to four remote barangays in several areas of responsibility.
“In the picture, video of Cateel, the RPSB… it is not an issue with the Philippine National Police vehicle; it is an issue with the local government unit in Cateel at the Municipal Police Station,” said Dela Rey.
She added that the vehicle is a great help to the police, especially in mobility in patrolling and providing direct services to the community, where the local government found that there is a lack of transportation in the barangays covered by the cluster.
“Let’s just adapt to the areas that cannot be reached by regular vehicles; that’s why we have motorcycles, bicycles, or whatever can help. But we want to clarify that it’s not a PNP issue; it’s a big help at the Cateel Municipal Police Station,” he explained.
Even though it is not as fast or as strong as the usual police patrol car, Dela Rey emphasized that it is still there to help in daily operations and bring aid or relief goods to the village.
Apart from this, it will also be useful to the police in some rotations in the community to ensure efficiency and clarity.
“It’s a big help compared to when you walk, and if there are goods they will bring, they can easily carry them,” she finished.
