MANILA, Philippines, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- The Philippine government plans to boost the ranks of its national police by 3,000 this year and procure new vehicles and firearms for its officers.
The Philippine National Police, or PNP, has taken on increased responsibilities in combating terrorism and insurgency as the country's armed forces try to quell a nationwide communist rebellion, and Muslim separatism and Islamic terrorism in southern provinces.
The Manila Bulletin Wednesday quoted Philippine Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. as saying 3,000 officers would be added to the ranks.
Budget office figures indicate the recruits would bring PNP strength to 122,893 people.
The government of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo plans to add 3,000 officers every year for the next three years.
The report said 500 vehicles and 5,000 firearms would also would be purchased for the PNP this year.
