2K trike drivers tapped as PNP force multipliers

 

POLICE BOOSTERS — Pangasinan Police Provincial Office director Col. Rollyfer Capoquian (standing left) talks to tricycle drivers and operators during oathtaking of officers and members of the tricycle drivers and operators (TODA) Rescue in San Fabian, Pangasinan on Feb. 8. The PPO  tapped around 2,000 TODA in the province to serve as force multipliers in crime prevention and rescue operations. (Photo courtesy of Pangasinan PPO)

By Hilda Austria

 

MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – The Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPO) has tapped around 2,000 tricycle drivers and operators (TODA) in the province to serve as force multipliers in crime prevention and rescue operations. 

    In a phone interview on Wednesday, Pangasinan PPO director Col. Rollyfer Capoquian said the members of the TODA Rescue will help the police in crime prevention efforts and assist them in the maintenance of public safety. 

    “They are on the road 24/7, making them valuable partners in crime prevention. We will train them in basic life-saving skills, first aid, and emergency response,” Capoquian said. 

    He highlighted that tricycle drivers, who operate in densely populated areas and navigate narrow roads, are well-positioned to respond to emergencies. 

    Their ability to quickly transport victims to healthcare facilities makes them crucial in rescue operations.

    "Their familiarity with their respective area qualifies them as first responders or rescuers," Capoquian said. 

    He said the TODA Rescue members have no salary but they will be given perks such as red cross cards, priority lanes on license renewal, and issuance of police auxiliary stickers. 

    Aside from the training, the rescuers will also have their identification cards. -- PNA