The Philippine National Police (PNP) has cited the courage and service of police personnel deployed in earthquake-hit areas in Mindanao as search, rescue, relief, and recovery operations continue following the magnitude 7.8 quake that struck the region on June 8.
Among those recognized was Police Staff Sergeant Aldrin Bareo of the Glan Municipal Police Station in Sarangani, whose own family and home were affected by the disaster while he continued helping residents during the emergency.
When the earthquake struck, Bareo was on duty while his wife and young child were at home. With power and communication lines down, he was unable to immediately contact them or confirm their condition.
Despite the uncertainty, he remained with fellow responders and helped evacuate residents, including children and families seeking shelter. It took nearly a day before he learned that his family was safe, but that their home had been destroyed.
The PNP said Bareo’s experience reflects the sacrifices of many police officers deployed across Regions 9, 11, 12, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), where personnel continue to serve despite also facing personal losses from the calamity.
Since the quake, thousands of police personnel have been deployed to support search and rescue operations, evacuation efforts, traffic management, security operations, relief distribution, and coordination with local government units and disaster response agencies.
Police officers have also been assisting in the establishment and security of temporary tent cities for families displaced by the earthquake. The PNP said personnel are helping identify safe areas, maintain order, and ensure that evacuees can access immediate assistance while authorities assess damaged homes and structures.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the work of police personnel in affected areas demonstrates the broader role of law enforcers during disasters.
“In times of disaster, our police officers do more than enforce the law. They become rescuers, protectors, coordinators, and sources of reassurance for communities facing uncertainty,” Nartatez said.
“We recognize the sacrifices being made by our personnel on the ground, many of whom are also affected by this tragedy, yet continue to serve with dedication and compassion,” he added.
Nartatez said the PNP will continue working with local governments, disaster response agencies, and community leaders to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need and that affected communities remain safe throughout the recovery process.
“Habang patuloy ang pagbangon ng ating mga kababayan, mananatiling katuwang nila ang kanilang kapulisan,” he said.
The PNP said its continuing operations are in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that government assistance reaches disaster-hit communities and that the safety and welfare of affected residents remain a priority.
As recovery efforts continue, the PNP said its personnel will remain on the ground to help protect, assist, and support communities recovering from the earthquake.