New NBI headquarters set to enhance law enforcement services in CAR

BAGUIO CITY — A new chapter in law enforcement in the Cordillera began on Wednesday with the National Bureau of Investigation-Cordillera Administrative Region (NBI-CAR) breaking ground its long-awaited regional headquarters along North Drive, expected to strengthen criminal investigations and public service across the highland region.

The planned eight-story building, backed by a P350-million budget, will rise over the next three years and become one of the most modern government law enforcement facilities in Northern Luzon.

Construction begins immediately following Wednesday’s groundbreaking ceremony, NBI-CAR Regional Director Janet Francisco said while explaining that the project represents more than just a new office, “but a long-term investment in the bureau’s ability to keep pace with increasingly sophisticated crimes while providing faster and more efficient services to the public.”

Ms. Francisco said the new headquarters will house state-of-the-art facilities and modern investigative resources that will allow agents and forensic specialists to perform their duties more effectively.

The upgraded infrastructure is also expected to improve coordination with other law enforcement agencies operating in the Cordillera.

The project comes as the NBI continues to expand its role in combating cybercrime, financial fraud, human trafficking, environmental offenses, and other complex crimes that require advanced investigative capabilities. Officials said a modern regional headquarters is essential to meeting these growing challenges.

Once completed, the building will stand as a visible symbol of NBI’s modernization program and commitment to public service.

It is expected to provide future generations of NBI personnel with the tools and facilities needed to uphold justice and protect communities throughout the Cordillera, Ms. Francisco beamed. — Artemio A. Dumlao