PNP, Metrobank cite top cops
The Philippine National Police (PNP) in partnership with the Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI), the Rotary Club of New Manila East and PSBank has announced the 2012 Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service (Cops).
The PNP revealed that four policewomen and six policemen emerged as winners in the 10th year of the search. “We honor the exemplary members of the PNP who have worked together with their communities in implementing crime solution and prevention at the same time highlight their contributions to nation-building through various community involvements,” MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña said.
The winners are Police Supt. Belli Tamayo of Quezon City; Police Chief Insp. Vicente  Cabatingan of Laguna; Police Senior Insp. Charity Galvez, Butuan City; Police Supt. Bernard Banac, Quezon City; Police Officer 3 Eduardo Santiago, Pangasinan; Senior PO3 Renjun Bagaman, Koronadal City; Senior PO3 Rhia Sotomil, Iloilo; PO3 Mary Jane Perez, Cotobato City; Senior PO4 Ma. Rosario Suarez, Davao City; and Senior PO Robert Fabregas, Quezon City.
Almost 100 nominees went through a rigorous screening process which involved document review and a panel interview by the final board of judges representing different sectors of the society.
Winners will be feted on Sept. 5 at Metrobank’s 50th anniversary celebration, together with the winners of the Search for Outstanding Teachers and the Search for the Outstanding Philippine Soldiers.
 Cops winners will receive a cash prize of P300,000 and a Metrobank trophy. The PNP will also confer them the Medalya ng Katangi-tanging Gawa.                                              PIA

DoT offers vinta sailing
in Zamboanga City
Vinta sailing is now an additional attraction at the scenic Paseo del Mar, which is the newest leisure park in Zamboanga City. This came after the Department of Tourism (DoT) in partnership with the local government officially launched “Vinta Sailing at Paseo” to preserve and promote Zamboanga City’s cultural identity and attract both domestic and foreign tourists.
DoT Regional Director Maryjune Bugante and Mayor Celso Lobregat said vinta sailing at Paseo will be available every Saturday and Sunday at an affordable cost of P50 for a 20 to 30-minute ride around the picturesque Paseo del Mar.
At least five boats or vintas with colorful sails will be on standby at the Paseo del Mar for anyone who wishes to enjoy the sea ride, Bugante said. She said a main objective of Vinta Sailing at the Paseo was to provide the Badjaos, who operate the boats, additional income.
The vintas being used in the campaign have complied with the requirements set by the DoT, the Philippine Coast Guard and other concerned agencies. Passengers will be equipped with life vests.                                                             PNA