Thursday, June 30, 2005
CH plans to distribute allowances to barangay intelligence networks
Barangay intelligence networks (BINs) in mountain barangays have been strengthened and could now be relied upon in providing important information, the Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) said.
In a report before the Police Coordinating and Advisory Council, ABC president Eugenio Faelnar said he was referring specifically to the BINs in 30 mountain barangays, which police have difficulty in reaching because of the distance.
For that reason, Faelnar and Mayor Tomas Osmeña are planning to grant BIN members allowances or incentives that will at least defray expenses that may be incurred when they pass on information to authorities.
He said they will try to find ways how to extend assistance to the BINs, considering the help they give to the City in keeping the peace.
Faelnar, in an interview, said the BINs are the ones responsible for the discovery of marijuana plantations and illegal logging incidents, and identification of drug personalities in the mountain barangays.
The incentives, he added, will encourage them and even others to stay vigilant in keeping their communities safe.
Token amount
“They (BIN members) will be happy to receive even just a token amount for fare. They are even more useful than barangay tanods,” Faelnar said.
He added that he sought the opinion of Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera, who had her reservations because the Commission on Audit (COA) might disallow the giving of allowances.
But, Faelnar said, Osmeña told him the City will try to find ways and means to aid BIN members.
Two weeks ago, Faelnar and city police officials met with Barangay Paril officials and residents to discuss the roles of BIN members in information gathering and build-up.
Faelnar said there are three to five BIN operatives in each of Cebu City’s 50 urban barangays and at least one or two in the mountain barangays. (RHM)
(June 30, 2005 issue)
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