NCRPO targets illegal connections amid El Niño
Cracks appear in the parched soil of a rice field in Rizal province on Thursday, 15 October 2026, as the country braces for the possible effects of El Niño.
Photograph by Analy Labor for DAILY TRIBUNE
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has directed all five police districts to intensify operations against individuals and groups allegedly exploiting the public's need for water through illegal connection schemes amid the threat of Super El Niño.
NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano issued the directive following the arrest of two alleged leaders of groups involved in illegal water connections in Baseco Compound, Manila.
According to an intelligence report cited by Baseco police, the two groups allegedly charged residents between P5,000 and P10,000 for installing unauthorized water connections.
Abrahano instructed police commanders to coordinate with water concessionaires, local government units, and barangay officials to identify areas vulnerable to illegal connection schemes, address complaints, and conduct joint inspections when necessary.
He also ordered investigators to pursue individuals organizing and financing the operations, including those collecting payments and facilitating unauthorized connections.
"We will not allow unscrupulous individuals to take advantage of our people's need for water, especially during periods when access to this essential resource becomes a serious concern. No one should be allowed to profit from unauthorized connections or exploit families simply trying to secure water for their households," Abrahano said.
He warned that illegal water connections could disrupt water distribution, compromise the reliability of utility systems, and expose residents to financial losses and possible legal consequences.
Abrahano urged the public to transact only with authorized water service providers and report individuals demanding payment for unauthorized water connections.