PPA launches its first-ever Seaport Special Response Course in partnership with PNP SAF to equip Port Police with advanced skills to strengthen port security nationwide.
16 September — The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) officially launched its first-ever Seaport Special Response Course (SSRC) on Monday, September 15, 2025, marking a milestone in enhancing the capabilities of its Port Police officers. The program, conducted in partnership with the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP SAF), is designed to prepare officers to maintain safety, order, and peace at PPA managed ports nationwide.
Top PPA executives gathered to witness the opening ceremony of SSRC Class 01-2025, where 24 Port Police officers will undergo 30 days of intensive training with the PNP SAF. The course focuses on equipping them with critical skills to prevent, respond to, and manage disasters, untoward incidents, and security threats at seaports.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago underscored the importance of honing officers’ abilities for high-risk operations. In his message, he called on the participants to pursue the training with integrity, dedication, and purpose.
“Mag-aral kayo ng may dedikasyon, mag-training ng may integridad at mamuno ng may layunin. 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. Huwag lang ninyong hayaan na ito ay maging isang pagsasanay lamang. Gamitin nyo ito para palalimin ang inyong pananagutan sa inyong mga kasamahan, sa PPA at sa buong bayan,” GM Santiago said.
Guest of Honor and speaker PMGEN Mark Pespes, Director of the PNP SAF, likewise reminded the officers to apply their newfound skills responsibly and to live a life of service.
“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,” PMGen Pespes stressed.
This latest program builds on previous initiatives to strengthen port security. In 2024, the Port Police completed the Basic Port Police Training Course at the PPA Training Center in La Union, which includes modules on port operations, criminal law, firearms safety, water search and rescue, and endurance drills. With around 300 active Port Police officers currently deployed across major ports, the growing demand for personnel amid port expansions highlights the need for advanced and specialized training.
The SSRC represents more than just a skills development program. It reflects a strategic partnership between the PPA and PNP SAF, a shared commitment to ensure that the country’s ports remain safe, secure, and resilient in the face of evolving threats.
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