The Philippine National Police (PNP) has shifted its focus in assisting the national government in rebuilding Cebu and Masbate, the ground zero of the devastation of strong earthquake and typhoon that struck the country in the past weeks.

In a statement Friday, Oct. 3, Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police personnel on the ground were instructed to “maintain stability, protect communities, and ensure the smooth implementation of relief and recovery operations” in Cebu following the deadly magnitude 6.9 earthquake that jolted the province last Sept. 30.

PNP personnel in Central Visayas were actively involved in disaster relief operations, from clearing road obstructions to helping in the distribution of relief goods to the affected communities, Nartatez said.

He said the PNP will also be extending technical support in the conduct of rapid assessment of the structural integrity of buildings and other critical infrastructure in Cebu and other areas severely affected by the earthquake.

Cops have also been present in areas badly damaged by the previous Severe Tropical Storm “Opong” in Masbate.

Despite this, Nartatez said that the peace and order situation in both Cebu and Masbate “remains peaceful.”

“All our personnel are focused on the tasks given to them, specifically on providing assistance in helping rebuild the two provinces,” he said.

The top cop said they maintain full coordination with the local government units and other agencies involved in the rebuilding process.

Mobile and foot patrols were intensified, checkpoints were established in key routes, and close coordination with disaster management teams was strengthened to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.

“If there is a need to deploy more personnel and resources, we will do so. We share the same goal with the affected residents and the national government of bringing back normalcy in the areas affected by the earthquake and typhoons,” he added.

Nartatez also directed commanders on the ground to sustain heightened visibility and vigilance, ensuring that law enforcement presence remains strong in vulnerable areas to avoid possible cases of looting and other criminality.

“The PNP remains vigilant. Our commanders on the ground have been directed to maintain a strong presence in vulnerable areas and act swiftly against any attempts to exploit the situation,” he said.