Mindanao: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered intensified police visibility operations in communities affected by power outages following the recent earthquake in Mindanao to prevent crime and ensure public safety. Police units in Regions 11 (Davao) and 12 (Soccsksargen) were directed to increase patrols in residential communities, commercial establishments, automated teller machine (ATM) sites, fuel stations, and other critical infrastructure that may become vulnerable during prolonged electricity disruptions.
According to Philippines News Agency, this directive came after the Department of Energy reported that power supply has yet to be fully restored in several areas affected by the earthquake in Mindanao. "We have strengthened our security presence in affected areas through mobile patrols, foot patrols, and coordination with local authorities," PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement Monday. "Our objective is to reassure residents of the presence of their police not only for their safety but also for response to any request for assistance," he added.
Data from the Office of Civil Defense as of Sunday showed that reported deaths undergoing validation from the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Maasim, Sarangani on June 8 had climbed to 61. The number of injured reached 1,403 while 40 individuals remained missing as of posting time. Power interruptions were reported in Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani.
While restoration efforts continue, the PNP said maintaining peace and order remains a priority in communities facing operational disruptions and reduced nighttime visibility, in line with the instructions of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla. Nartatez also instructed local police commanders to coordinate closely with local government units, barangays, and utility providers to immediately address security concerns that may arise during the outages.
"We ask everyone to remain calm and continue working closely with local authorities as we carry out measures to keep communities safe and secure," he said. The PNP assured the public that all police units remain ready to respond to emergencies and maintain order while affected areas work toward the full restoration of electricity services.
