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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Cops use drone technology in Cebu disaster response

Cops use drone technology in Cebu disaster response

Published Nov 6, 2025 03:51 pm
A POLICEMAN operates a drone during the Drone Piloting Skills Challenge on Thursday, Sept. 11, in Camp Sergio Osmeña Sr. in Cebu City.(Photo via Calvin Cordova)
A POLICEMAN operates a drone during the Drone Piloting Skills Challenge on Thursday, Sept. 11, in Camp Sergio Osmeña Sr. in Cebu City.(Photo via Calvin Cordova)
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), lauded the police forces in the province of Cebu for using drone technology to improve mobility management and public safety operations in the aftermath of Typhoon “Tino”.
“Through drone operations, our commanders on the ground can see real-time traffic flow and immediately adjust road management plans. This allows us to prioritize the movement of rescue teams, medical assistance, and relief convoys,” said Nartatez.
He was referring to the disaster response in Liloan, Cebu where the Provincial Police Office led by Police Col. Abubakar Udang Mangelen Jr. launched a strategic aerial monitoring operation on Nov. 5 to address severe traffic congestion caused by post-typhoon activities.
Liloan was one of the areas which was hit hard by the weather disturbance.
The drone-assisted surveillance provided real-time road assessments and allowed authorities to quickly adjust traffic plans, clear obstructions, and facilitate the passage of emergency vehicles and relief convoys.
Nartatez said the integration of drone surveillance is part of the PNP’s ongoing modernization program in disaster response.
“It is not only about police presence but smart monitoring using technology. It helps us act faster, safer, and more efficiently in critical situations like this,” Nartatez emphasized.
Meanwhile, Nartatez directed all regional and provincial police offices in affected areas to intensify visibility patrols in evacuation centers and heavily hit communities to ensure peace and order while relief and rehabilitation efforts continue.
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