PNP Tightens Security at Flood Control Facilities Amid Rising Theft

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has tightened security at flood control facilities in Metro Manila following an increase in theft of parts and equipment that disrupted operations amid strong monsoon rains. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that he has directed concerned police units to coordinate with local governments and facility operators, intensify security, and conduct immediate investigations to identify and arrest those responsible. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon revealed that stolen cables, valves, and manhole covers have impaired the operations of flood mitigation facilities in the capital. Specifically, high-voltage cables were stolen at the Sunog Apog facility in Manila, grounding cables at the Navotas pumping station, and heavy-duty check valves at the Tumana pumping station in Marikina. Manhole covers along Roxas Boulevard were also reported missing. Nartatez stressed that replacing the stolen components would incur public funds. He declared that those who steal or buy stolen equipment will be held accountable under the law, and the perpetrators will be pursued to ensure appropriate charges are filed. Meanwhile, Sen. Vicente Sotto III has filed a resolution seeking a probe into the recent spate of typhoons and floods to strengthen the country’s disaster response. In Senate Resolution 631, Sotto cited reports of approximately P5.1 billion in damage to infrastructure, including the collapse of several roads, bridges, and flood control facilities. He also expressed concern over the Department of Health’s tally of at least 5,486 leptospirosis cases and reported fatalities due to the flooding. Sotto emphasized the need to assess the resilience of public infrastructure in the face of worsening typhoons due to climate change. Furthermore, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos described relentless flooding caused by negligence and corruption as a crime against God and the people. Source: Philstar Nation