Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday ordered police personnel to concentrate on assisting the national government in rebuilding Cebu and Masbate, which were heavily hit by recent strong earthquakes and tropical cyclones.
Nartatez said all personnel on the ground have been tasked to help in clearing operations, relief distribution, and maintaining stability in affected communities.
“If there is a need to deploy more personnel and resources, we will do so. We share the same goal with the affected residents and the national government of bringing back normalcy in the areas affected by the earthquake and typhoons,” he said.
He added that the PNP is fully aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to mobilize all government resources for disaster response.
Aside from security and relief assistance, police will also provide technical support for rapid assessment of the structural integrity of buildings and other critical infrastructure in Cebu and nearby provinces.
“Overall, the peace and order in both Cebu and Masbate remain peaceful. All our personnel are focused on the tasks given to them, specifically on providing assistance in helping rebuild the two provinces,” Nartatez said.
The PNP has also intensified mobile and foot patrols, set up checkpoints, and strengthened coordination with disaster response teams to ensure public safety.
“The PNP remains vigilant. Our commanders on the ground have been directed to maintain a strong presence in vulnerable areas and act swiftly against any attempts to exploit the situation,” he said.