PNP: We're Not to Blame for Questionable Purchase of Mahindra Patrol Cars

In light of the questionable purchase of 2,054 Mahindra vehicles costing P1.89 billion in 2015, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said the blame rests solely on the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and not with the country's national police force.

PNP spokesperson Sr. Supt. Benigno Durana explained that it was DBM's awry procurement practice that led to the purchase of lemon Mahindra vehicles.

"What we did is actually in partnership with the NAPOLCOM (National Police Commission). We submitted the specifications of the requirements that we need as far as transportation is concerned. They approved it. That was the basis of procurement of the vehicle," Durana said.

The Commission on Audit (COA) questioned the purchase of India-made Mahindra Enforcer and Mahindra Scorpio after some problems were found in the vehicles. Durana noted that the COA report was based on a PNP report that detailed the condition of the vehicles upon inspection. He also emphasized that the PNP followed the standard procedure in requesting the procurement of the patrol cars.

"Ginawa namin what is regular and legal, based on the specifications," Durana said while welcoming any investigation on the issue.

Senator Grace Poe announced earlier her intention to investigate the procurement of Mahindra patrol cars.