The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed its commanders to intensify assistance in communities cut off by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake, while helping restore order and basic normalcy in affected urban centers in Mindanao.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units have been instructed to maintain visibility in isolated barangays and other quake-hit areas to support relief operations, secure damaged sites, and assist residents still reeling from the strong tremor.
He also commended police personnel who immediately responded to collapsed buildings and damaged structures, helped injured victims, and secured affected areas to prevent further harm to civilians.
“Our personnel were already on the streets and communities to extend assistance right after the strong earthquake despite the serious risks of harm and injury. I express my sincerest gratitude for your sacrifices and sense of duty. I am proud of you!” Nartatez said.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) earlier reported that authorities were validating more than 30 deaths and over 200 injuries due to collapsed structures and other quake-related damage.
Police personnel were among the first responders deployed to secure collapse sites and damaged establishments, evacuate residents, administer first aid, and help bring injured victims to temporary medical facilities.
Sarangani was among the hardest-hit areas, with several barangays reportedly isolated due to collapsed bridges and damaged access roads.
Nartatez said police forces have been involved in response and rehabilitation efforts in town centers and urban areas since the first day of the disaster. Additional personnel and PNP resources are also on standby for deployment as needed.
“We have been maintaining police presence in urban areas and town centers since Day One, and our deployment in these areas will remain until everything normalizes,” he said.
“But we are also focusing on maintaining police presence in isolated barangays and communities not only to provide assistance but also to make the affected local residents feel safe with police visibility,” he added.
Nartatez said the directive follows the instruction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to maximize assistance for residents affected by the earthquake.
He said police presence in isolated areas is critical to support the orderly movement of food, water, equipment, and other supplies needed for disaster response.
The PNP is also coordinating with other government agencies as national and local authorities prepare broader rehabilitation efforts in quake-hit communities.