PNP Initiates Comprehensive Structural Integrity Inspections
In the wake of powerful offshore earthquakes that rattled Davao Oriental and nearby areas, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has ordered a thorough assessment of all police stations, headquarters, and related infrastructure. The objective is to ensure structural safety and uninterrupted operations for law enforcement personnel serving Mindanao.
The PNP has mobilized its engineering service to spearhead the inspections, with a focus on identifying any damage that could compromise the safety of officers, staff, and the communities they serve. The directive covers affected regions across Mindanao, including the areas most affected by the magnitude 7.4 and subsequent 6.8 offshore earthquakes.
Coordination and Reporting
Nartatez stated that the order has been relayed to the directors of the Davao and Caraga regional police offices. They are required to submit reports that will feed into a consolidated situation update intended for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). This coordination underscores the PNP’s role in national disaster response and public safety during emergencies.
“All police facilities in affected regions are now being inspected to ensure their structural integrity and to guarantee that our personnel can continue performing their duties safely. We are also verifying the condition of our communication equipment, vehicles, and other operational assets that may have been impacted by the earthquake,” Nartatez explained.
Maintaining Public Safety and Operational Readiness
The leadership emphasized that, beyond structural checks, police units are maintaining visibility patrols to deter crime, including looting in evacuation centers and heavily affected neighborhoods. In the immediate aftermath of natural disasters, maintaining a visible presence helps reassure residents and supports orderly evacuations and humanitarian efforts.
Mindanao’s police forces are described as being on full alert, ready to assist in rescue, relief, and security operations as needed. Nartatez highlighted that personnel are on the ground to support evacuations, uphold public order, and protect communities most impacted by the earthquakes. The emphasis remains on ensuring public safety while enabling efficient coordination with other emergency responders.
Public Cooperation and Information Sharing
The PNP leadership urged calm and cooperation from the public and requested that information be verified before sharing on social media or other channels. In the aftermath of disasters, misinformation can hinder relief efforts and complicate rescue operations. Clear, verified updates from authorities help communities respond effectively and reduce panic.
Impact on Operations and Preparedness
As structural inspections proceed, the PNP is also reviewing the operational readiness of communications networks, vehicles, and other critical assets. Ensuring that police infrastructure remains sound is essential not only for law-and-order duties but also for coordinating with disaster response agencies, medical teams, and local government units.
Looking Ahead
Officials say the inspection findings will shape ongoing safety measures and maintenance plans for police facilities in Mindanao. The aim is to fortify resilience against future seismic events and to sustain the PNP’s capacity to protect and serve during emergencies. The collaboration with regional offices and the NDRRMC will continue to be a cornerstone of the response and recovery efforts.
