The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced its full support Wednesday for a nationwide review and enhancement of earthquake contingency plans, following recent tremors that have affected several provinces.
PNP acting chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. acknowledged the urgent need for stronger coordination between national government agencies and local government units to boost the country’s disaster resilience.
“The PNP fully supports calls to strengthen earthquake preparedness across all levels of government,” Nartatez said. “We are currently enhancing our disaster response protocols and ensuring that all police units are equipped and ready to assist in search, rescue, and relief operations when needed.”
The move comes after a series of strong earthquakes recently shook parts of Davao Oriental, Cebu, and other provinces. The tremors prompted National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council chairperson and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to order a comprehensive review of existing local disaster contingency plans.
Teodoro also encouraged wide-scale earthquake drills in schools, public buildings, and government facilities to reinforce readiness.In response, Nartatez has directed all levels of the PNP, from the top command to regional offices and elite units, to review and update their contingency and evacuation plans in close collaboration with local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs).
The PNP is also ramping up its own preparedness through regular earthquake drills, supplementing the quarterly nationwide exercises led by the Office of Civil Defense.