PNP orders units to save water, go after pilferers

March 14, 2019

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday directed their units in Metro Manila and Rizal which are experiencing temporary water shortage to observe conservation measures.

In a statement, PNP said this is to help avert a possible water crisis in Luzon at the onset of the dry season.

"Headquarters support units in PNP camps and facilities were directed to detail inspectors who will check on wasteful or unnecessary water usage " said Senior Superintendent Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson.

Banac said Director General Oscar Albayalde also directed PNP units to assist barangay authorities in maintaining order and crowd control in water rationing points.

On Wednesday, the Mandaluyong police stepped in assisting residents in their area.

“Local PNP units are directed to ensure safety and security of water service providers against unruly crowd and persons who may want to provoke chaos in the water distribution points,” said Albayalde.

Banac said police units will also be on the lookout for unauthorized tampering or pilferage of water from fire hydrants and main water lines. 

Areas in the Metro Manla's East Zone are experiencing water shortage due to the lack of supply from Manila Water.  Ella Dionisio/DMS