PNP tightens security at pumping stations

MANILA, Philippines — Police have tightened security at flood control facilities in Metro Manila following reports of theft of parts and equipment that disrupted operations amid strong monsoon rains last week.

“I have directed concerned police units to coordinate with local governments and facility operators, intensify security and conduct immediate investigations to identify and arrest those responsible,” Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

Stolen cables, valves and manhole covers impaired operations of flood mitigation facilities in the capital, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon revealed earlier.

Thieves stole high-voltage cables at the Sunog Apog facility in Manila, grounding cables at the Navotas pumping station and heavy-duty check valves at the Tumana pumping station in Marikina.

Manhole covers along Roxas Boulevard were also missing.

Replacing the stolen components would cost public funds, Nartatez stressed.

“Those who steal or buy stolen equipment will be held accountable under the law. We will pursue the perpetrators and ensure that appropriate charges are filed against them,” Nartatez said.

Probe infrastructure damage

Sen. Vicente Sotto III has filed a resolution seeking a probe on the recent spate of typhoons and floods to strengthen the country’s disaster response.

In Senate Resolution 631, Sotto cited reports of about P5.1 billion in damage to infrastructure, including the collapse of several roads, bridges and flood control facilities.

Sotto expressed concern over the Department of Health’s tally of at least 5,486 leptospirosis cases, as well as reports of fatalities due to the flooding.

Sotto stressed the need to assess the resilience of public infrastructure amid worsening typhoons due to climate change.

Meanwhile, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos said relentless flooding caused by negligence and corruption is a crime against God and the people. — Marc Jayson Cayabyab, Bella Cariaso