Philippine Police Deploy to Enforce Price Controls,Enhance Disaster Preparedness After Davao Oriental Earthquakes
Table of Contents
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is bolstering support for communities in Davao Oriental following recent earthquakes,focusing on both price stabilization and enhanced disaster response capabilities. This multifaceted approach aims to prevent exploitation of vulnerable populations and ensure a swift recovery.
The PNP announced wednesday its commitment to assisting the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units (LGUs) in enforcing a 60-day price freeze on essential goods in Davao Oriental. The measure, enacted after twin earthquakes struck the province last week, is designed to protect consumers from price gouging during a time of heightened need.
“we will coordinate with the DTI to ensure that its directives for retailers are being observed following the twin earthquakes… This will help prevent looting incidents.This would be a big help to those severely affected by the quakes,” stated Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the PNP acting chief. The increased police presence is intended to maintain peace and order in affected areas and deter opportunistic crime.
Supporting Relief and Rehabilitation Efforts
Beyond price control enforcement, the PNP is actively involved in ongoing relief and rehabilitation operations. Nartatez assured the public that sufficient personnel and resources have been deployed to work alongside local disaster response units.
“The PNP stands ready to assist in any capacity to help our fellow Filipinos in Davao Oriental recover and rebuild. During calamities, we need to ensure that no one would take advantage [of the situation] and everyone would receive assistance,” nartatez emphasized. The DTI’s price freeze,effective from October 13 to December 12,aims to keep basic necessities affordable during the recovery period.
Nationwide Earthquake preparedness Review
The response in Davao Oriental is occurring alongside a broader nationwide effort to enhance earthquake preparedness. The PNP has expressed full support for a review of earthquake contingency plans across all national government agencies (NGAs) and LGUs. this initiative follows recent tremors felt in various parts of the country, prompting a reassessment of existing protocols.
“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,” Nartatez explained. He has directed all levels of the PNP – from top leadership to regional offices and specialized units – to update their contingency and evacuation plans in coordination with local disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils.
Regular earthquake drills are also being mandated, supplementing the quarterly drills already spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense. This emphasis on preparedness reflects a proactive approach to mitigating the impact of future seismic events. Last week, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Chairman of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), urged widespread earthquake drills, notably in public spaces like schools and government offices, to strengthen overall readiness.
Expanding Disaster Response Capabilities
The PNP is also actively investing in its disaster response infrastructure. As of October 1, the PNP had distributed 74,360 Search and Rescue (SAR) tools and materials nationwide. Further bolstering these capabilities, the PNP Directorate for Logistics has recently procured a significant array of equipment, including:
- 383 personnel carriers (4×4)
- 400 light motorcycles
- 32 heavy motorcycles
- 225 light transport vehicles
- 322 unmanned aerial vehicles (rotary blade/propelled wing)
- 403 automated night vision monoculars
- 4,989 enhanced combat helmets
- 3,711 all-purpose vests
- 4 laser scanners
These investments demonstrate a commitment to equipping law enforcement with the tools necessary to effectively respond to a wide range of disaster scenarios. The PNP’s extensive strategy, encompassing price control enforcement, direct relief support, and proactive disaster preparedness, underscores its dedication to safeguarding Filipino communities in the face of adversity.
Related reading
- Tariff vs. Price Floor: What Trump's New Solar Rule Does (daybreakwire.com)
