Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada has congratulated the Manila Police District, called “Manila’s Finest,” for being adjudged as the Best Police District in Metro Manila.
The 4,600-strong MPD was also cited by the National Capital Regional Police Office for having the highest accomplishment in “Project Double Barrel” and also for registering the highest index crime solution efficiency, as well as having the most number of confiscated firearms from 2016 to 2017.
“You’ve been called ‘Manila’s Finest’ because you exemplify the highest standards of police service: honesty, integrity, and competency. Keep up the good work,” Estrada said in his message to MPD director Chief Supt. Joel Coronel and his men.
Estrada pointed out that the MPD’s hard work and sacrifices have resulted in fewer crimes in the city and the neutralization of hundreds of big-time drug traffickers that have bedeviled the nation’s capital.
“On behalf of the 1.7 million Manileños, I thank you for protecting the City of Manila. We enjoy continuous economic progress because of the improving peace and order that you pay for with your own lives,” the mayor added.
The awards were handed out by NCRPO Director Oscar Albayalde on Saturday at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City as part of the celebration of the 116th Police Service Anniversary.
Estrada cited the MPD’s recognition as the best of the five police districts in Metro Manila in terms of results in Project Double Barrel, the armed law enforcement operations component of the Oplan Tokhang anti-drug drive.
The award came just as the MPD has completed sustained anti-crime operations across Manila last week, leading to the killing of dozens of crime suspects and the arrest of over 100 more.
Coronel conveyed his gratitude to Estrada for the success of the MPD.
“Thank you very much, Mayor Estrada, because of the support you have given us, we were able to do our job,” the MPD chief said.
Coronel is also thankful to the officers and men of MPD “for their contribution and performance for the past 12 months.”
With another achievement under its belt, MPD will continue to receive support from the city government, according to Estrada.
Last March, Estrada procured P20-million worth of brand new firearms for MPD operatives to improve the city police’s firepower against armed criminals and terrorists.
Last October, the city government also bought for the MPD 400 units of Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistols, 60 M4 carbines, eight Sig Sauer sniper rifles, ammunition, and other necessary gear and equipment, also worth P20 million.
When he assumed office in 2013, Estrada has allotted P1.9 billion for crime prevention program, which includes P136 million in back allowances of MPD members and the procurement of 41 new mobile patrol cars and 110 electric personal transporters.
Through a P20-million funding, the mayor also renovated the main headquarters of MPD in United Nations Avenue, the first time since it was built back in 1949.