The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) expressed concern over the theft of a grounding cable from a flood-control facility in Navotas City, warning that tampering with such infrastructure could put equipment and nearby communities at risk.

Around eight to 10 meters of grounding cable were stolen from the Navotas Navigational Gate on Saturday, Aug. 15.

Northern Police District (NPD) Director Brig. Gen. Benliner Capili said around four men, some of whom were allegedly carrying firearms, took the cable that serves as a ground protector for the motors and electrical panels of the navigational gate.

The facility remains operational, but authorities said the missing grounding cable could expose its motors and panels to faster deterioration or damage.

Authorities said the security guard on duty did not confront the suspects out of fear for his safety.

Capili has ordered an investigation and manhunt for the unidentified suspects.

Meanwhile, MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre condemned the incident, saying the theft went beyond the loss of the cable itself.

“Nakakagalit ito. Ninakaw ang humigit-kumulang 8–10 metro ng grounding cable ng Navigational gate sa Navotas Pumping Station (This is infuriating. Around eight to 10 meters of grounding cable from the navigational gate at the Navotas Pumping Station were stolen),” Torre said.

He said the stolen cable is part of the equipment that supports the operation of the flood-control facility, particularly during heavy rains and possible flooding.

“Hindi lang ito simpleng pagnanakaw ng kable. Ang pinakikialaman dito ay kagamitang tumutulong sa operasyon ng pumping station—imprastrakturang kailangan natin lalo na kapag malakas ang ulan at may panganib ng pagbaha (This is not just a simple case of cable theft. What is being tampered with is equipment that supports the operation of the pumping station, infrastructure that is especially important during heavy rains and when there is a risk of flooding),” Torre said.

Torre added that the amount that could be earned from selling the stolen cable was small compared with the possible risks to residents and properties if the flood-control equipment is damaged.

The MMDA said it is coordinating with authorities to identify and hold those responsible accountable and will tighten security at pumping stations and other flood-control facilities.

Torre also urged the public not to confront suspicious individuals seen near such facilities and instead immediately report them to authorities.

“Hindi ito simpleng pagnanakaw. Kapag flood-control infrastructure ang sinira o ninakawan, kaligtasan ng buong komunidad ang inilalagay sa peligro (This is not a simple theft. When flood-control infrastructure is damaged or robbed, the safety of the entire community is put at risk),” Torre said.