Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has instructed all police units to intensify health and safety protocols to safeguard personnel and the public amid an increase in seasonal flu cases, which led to class suspensions in Metro Manila.
According to Philippines News Agency, this directive aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s guidance, as conveyed by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to maintain uninterrupted public services while protecting the health and welfare of government employees and the communities they serve. Nartatez emphasized the importance of basic health protocols, such as proper hygiene, regular hand washing, and the use of face masks in crowded areas. Police facilities are also advised to maintain adequate ventilation and cleanliness.
The PNP Health Service has been tasked with conducting regular health checks and monitoring personnel exhibiting flu-like symptoms to provide immediate medical attention and prevent the virus's spread within the police ranks. Nartatez stressed the importance of keeping police officers healthy to ensure their ability to perform duties effectively while protecting the communities they serve.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has clarified that there is no influenza-like illness outbreak in Metro Manila, despite class suspensions in the National Capital Region. The PNP has urged the public to remain calm and adhere to official health advisories, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and the organization's commitment to supporting government efforts for public safety and well-being.
In addition to these health measures, the PNP has extended relief assistance to police personnel affected by recent earthquakes in Davao Oriental through the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11. The organization, under the leadership of Brig. Gen Joseph Arguelles, has implemented a post-disaster recovery program for personnel impacted by the tremors in Manay, Davao Oriental, and nearby areas. Assistance includes financial aid for damaged housing, grocery items for affected personnel and residents, and structural integrity assessments of police facilities.
Furthermore, the Regional Medical and Dental Unit 11 and Camp Sgt. Quintin M. Merecido Hospital have provided medical and mental health first aid services, distributed vitamins and medicines, and conducted neuro-psychiatric evaluations to support the psychological recovery of affected personnel. Life coaches have been deployed to conduct counseling sessions, aimed at strengthening the emotional and spiritual resilience of PNP members.
Nartatez emphasized the PNP's commitment to the mental health and well-being of its personnel, recognizing that disasters impact both physical safety and emotional stability. He assured continuous monitoring and support for personnel and facilities, and sustained recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
In a message of solidarity and encouragement, Nartatez expressed the PNP organization's support for personnel and their families in Davao Oriental and nearby areas affected by the earthquake, affirming that their safety and recovery are a priority.
