PNP prepares for cops' protection from heat as dry season starts
Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo: Office of the Chief PNP)
Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered all chiefs of police and unit commanders to review and assess the deployment plans following the advice of weather experts for the public to brace for hotter temperatures.
Nartatez said the move is intended to protect ground personnel, especially those conducting beat patrols and checkpoints from health problems common during this hot season, including heat stroke and cramps.
“While your PNP is working to ensure everyone’s safety, we also have to look after the welfare and protection of our personnel on the ground from threat of health problems this dry season,” said Nartatez.
Earlier, the weather experts warned of hotter temperatures as it announced the end of the northeast monsoon (amihan) season. It said the high temperatures are expected to peak in April and May.
He said he already directed the chiefs of police and unit commanders to conduct review of deployment strategy and assessment of personnel to ensure that the health condition of those who would be deployed on the ground will not be compromised.
“If there’s a need for security adjustments, so be it. What is important is that we ensure that all our personnel are also safe and protected,” he told police commanders.
Nartatez said police officers on field duty must stay hydrated at all times and have reasonable working hours or shifts to avoid overexposure to the heat.
He said police commanders were also tasked to review and implement past policy issuances relating to dry season deployment.
Nartatez also emphasized that the welfare of uniformed personnel comes first as they carry out their sworn duties.