The Philippine National Police (PNP) has alerted all its units, particularly those in Metro Manila, as part of the security measures for any eventuality amid the air strikes in the Middle East.

While there is no credible threat detected and the Middle East conflict has no direct security impact in the country, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said it would be wise and logical not to lower police guard in anticipation of any security-related scenario.

“We have not detected a credible threat but our personnel remain vigilant and proactive. The situation is being monitored and we are in close coordination with other government agencies on this matter,” said Nartatez.

But he said the PNP has increased the alert level in connection with the matter especially to ensure that foreign establishments and VIPs of the concerned countries like the United States and Israel embassies are secured.

“We need to secure their establishments and we are continuously doing that. Not only establishments and VIPs of these two countries but the rest of the countries that are allied with them,” said Nartatez.

“We are working closely with the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and other intelligence partners… Our intelligence units are actively monitoring any possible spillover effects, including terror threats or radicalization, and everything that could affect our internal security,” he added.

Nartatez said he directed the PNP Intelligence Group to intensify monitoring of extremist narratives and online radicalization.

Police visibility was also increased in key urban centers, transport hubs, and vital installations while random security inspections were conducted nationwide in coordination with local police units.

He said coordination with the AFP, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and other security agencies has also been strengthened to enhance monitoring of foreign-influenced propaganda and extremist narratives.

Tensions in the Middle East escalated following reported coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian-linked targets. The attacks were described as part of efforts to deter further regional aggression while Iran vowed retaliation.

A Filipino caregiver was killed in a retaliatory air strike of Iran in Israel.

Despite the volatile security situation in the Middle East, Nartatez stressed that the PNP is not monitoring reports of potential spillover effects.

What the PNP is focused on, he said, is the daily threat from criminal elements and groups that include communist rebels and remaining local terror groups.

“With or without the conflict in the Middle East, the PNP is standing firm especially with our commitment to keep the public safe and there is peace and order in our community,” he added.

Nartatez also urged the public to remain calm and vigilant, and warned against the spread of disinformation related to the conflict.