The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up efforts to strengthen the conviction rate of those involved in cases of theft and pilferage of electricity distribution facilities and materials.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said he already tasked police commanders across the country not only to protect electricity distribution facilities and materials but also ensure that all those arrested are charged with strong cases.

“The certainty of arrest and punishment is also a strong crime prevention measure because it sends a strong message that the rule of law always prevails. This is what we in the PNP are also focusing on matters pertaining to theft and pilferage of electricity,” said Nartatez.

Territorial and other police units have been conducting aggressive operations against electricity theft but Nartatez said the entire process does not end with the arrest of those involved in the illegal activity.

He said the focus should also be on strengthening the conviction rate of those involved in cases of theft and pilferage.

Earlier, officials of the PNP and a major electric company signed an agreement to strengthen partnership to protect electricity distribution facilities and materials through enhanced coordination, information sharing, and joint law enforcement efforts.

Nartatez emphasized the need to protect electricity distribution in the country for its critical role not only to the economy but also to the lives of the Filipino people.

He said any disruption in the electricity distribution will certainly have big effects not only to every household and schools but also to the business sector, especially small and medium enterprises that power up the country’s economy.

“Protecting power distribution and other critical infrastructures is part of the PNP mandate, we will make sure that this mandate is observed down to the municipal and city levels,” said Nartatez.