PNP bolsters security measures amid rotational brownouts

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said its organization has intensified security measures nationwide amid concerns over possible crimes during rotational brownouts in several areas.

"I have already directed all Regional and Provincial Directors to intensify foot and mobile patrols specifically in residential and commercial hubs during the scheduled power interruptions at night," PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement.

"Darkness must not be an invitation for 'akyat-bahay' or street-level crimes. Our personnel are instructed to utilize high-visibility tactics, including the use of blinkers and searchlights, to let the community know that the police are present and vigilant even when the lights are out," he added.

The order seeks to prevent the possible rise in theft and street robbery during prolonged periods of low visibility in residential areas and business districts, according to the PNP.

Power distributor Meralco is set to implement rotational power interruptions that will last up to two hours in some areas after the National Grid Corporation Philippines (NGCP) raised the red alert alarm on the Luzon Grid Thursday.

Nartatez said Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs) would be mobilized to assist in monitoring communities during manual load-dropping events.

Local police units were directed to work closely with barangay officials and local government units to strengthen community watch systems, particularly in densely populated areas and transport corridors.

Nartatez said police command centers and emergency hotlines, including Unified 911, would remain operational through backup power systems.

The PNP said emergency response units would remain on standby with alternative power sources to ensure uninterrupted communication and rapid deployment during extended outages.

"We are committed to ensuring that the power crisis does not translate into a security crisis. Your safety is our non-negotiable priority," Nartatez said. — VDV, GMA News