Ang Pahayagan

BALER, Aurora — A series of modernization, infrastructure, and wellness initiatives have been implemented by the Aurora Police Provincial Office (PPO) under the leadership of Police Colonel Robert Petate since he assumed office as Provincial Director on June 28, 2025.

Among the landmark projects is the establishment of the first solar-powered command center within the provincial police headquarters. The facility is designed to ensure operational continuity during power interruptions and emergencies, while advancing sustainable energy use. Officials said the project reflects the office’s thrust toward modernization and disaster-resilient policing.

Facility upgrades were also undertaken to enhance both operational functionality and personnel morale. Improvements include the construction of the Sinag-Laya Children’s Park, concreting of internal pathways, renovation of the grotto, waterproofing and repainting of the administration building, installation of building markers, and the creation of a Heroes Wall honoring the service and sacrifice of police personnel.

The construction of the Aurora PPO main gate arch (Post 1), enhancement of the stage area, and development of an oval track further improved the headquarters’ overall environment for personnel and visitors.

Operational capability was reinforced through the launch of Project BERT (Bicycle-Enhanced Rapid Team), which utilizes bicycles to provide faster and more accessible police response, particularly in areas where vehicle mobility is limited. The program included the procurement of bicycles and related equipment to increase patrol visibility and response efficiency.

To strengthen personnel readiness, Aurora PPO also introduced Project RLP (Rebuild, Loose Weight, and Make Yourself Perfectly Fit), a wellness initiative aimed at promoting physical fitness and healthier lifestyles among police personnel to ensure sustained operational preparedness.

In the digital sphere, Project HEROES (Helping Empower Responsible Online Administrators on Ethical Standards) was initiated to promote responsible social media engagement and encourage collaboration with online community administrators in maintaining accurate and ethical information dissemination.

Additional upgrades include the installation of solar-powered light posts, expansion of CCTV coverage across key areas of the province, procurement of portable radios to improve communication capability, acquisition of motorcycles to enhance mobility, and installation of television units for centralized CCTV monitoring through partnerships with local government units under existing Memoranda of Understanding.

Police Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Regional Director of Police Regional Office 3, commended the Aurora PPO for its proactive and innovative leadership.

“These initiatives demonstrate how leadership, innovation, and community partnership can work together to enhance police service delivery. The programs implemented by Aurora PPO support the PNP Focused Agenda and reflect PRO3’s strategic direction anchored on the 3Ps — Protect the People, Pursue Peace and Order, and Promote Professionalism,” Peñones said.

With these initiatives, Aurora PPO underscores its commitment to a holistic policing approach — combining modernization, personnel welfare, and community engagement to build safer and more resilient communities in the province. (Jason de Asis)