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The Philippine Ports Authority has launched a special course designed to prepare and enhance the capabilities of its port police officers to maintain safety, order, and peace at ports nationwide
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The first-ever Seaport Special Response Course (SSRC) launched on September 15 is being conducted in partnership with the Philippine National Police Special Action Force
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A total of 24 port police officers under SSRC Class 01-2025 will undergo 30 days of intensive training with the PNP SAF, focusing on equipping them with critical skills to prevent, respond to, and manage disasters, untoward incidents, and security threats at seaports
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has launched a special course designed to prepare and enhance the capabilities of its port police officers to maintain safety, order, and peace at ports nationwide.
The first-ever Seaport Special Response Course (SSRC) launched on September 15 is being conducted in partnership with the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP SAF), PPA said in a statement.
With around 300 active port police officers currently deployed across major ports, PPA said the growing demand for personnel amid port expansions highlights the need for advanced and specialized training.
A total of 24 port police officers under SSRC Class 01-2025 will undergo 30 days of intensive training with the PNP SAF, focusing on equipping them with critical skills to prevent, respond to, and manage disasters, untoward incidents, and security threats at seaports.
PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago underscored the importance of honing port police officers’ abilities for high-risk operations, calling on the participants to pursue the training with integrity, dedication, and purpose.
“When the time comes that your skills are tested, ang pagkakataong ito ang magiging sandigan ng inyong tagumpay. Hindi lang para sa misyon, kundi sa mga buhay na inyong po-protektahan at sa mga pantalan ng inyong pagbabantayan,” Santiago said in his message.
He also rallied them to use the training not just as a skills exercise but to deepen their sense of responsibility to their fellow officers, the PPA, and the country.
For his part, PNP SAF director Mark Pespes said: “Let’s ensure na ‘yung natutunan natin ay gamitin natin ng tama, gamitin natin sa trabaho. Not to abuse, not for illegal activities. Na kung minsan, kahit sa south, may mga natututong mga tropa natin just to end up on some illegal activities. So reminder sa ating mga kasamahan.”
PPA said this latest program builds on previous initiatives to strengthen port security. In 2024, the PPA port police also completed a basic training course, which included modules on port operations, criminal law, firearms safety, water search and rescue, and endurance drills.
PPA said the SSRC represents more than just a skills development program but also reflects a strategic partnership between the ports authority and PNP SAF to ensure that the country’s ports remain safe, secure, and resilient in the face of evolving threats.
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