CAMP CRAME, QUEZON CITY — As concerns over an impending El Niño grow, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is stepping up efforts to turn its facilities nationwide into models of resource efficiency while incorporating climate resilience into everyday barangay patrols.
PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced that police camps and headquarters will lead by example by adopting water-saving habits and practical resource management. This initiative aims to address mounting uncertainties regarding potential impacts on potable water supplies.
Nartatez noted that setting a benchmark in police stations will strengthen law enforcement’s role in promoting household food resilience and water conservation during community policing efforts.
“The PNP fully supports the President’s call for water conservation and household food resilience. Prepared and self-reliant communities are better equipped to withstand the challenges brought by El Niño and other emergencies,” Nartatez said.
The administration has previously urged citizens to practice rainwater harvesting and revive backyard gardening to bolster household food security amid looming agricultural and water availability challenges.
To bridge these efforts to the grassroots, Nartatez explained that police personnel will leverage community dialogues and visitations.
“Our police officers can promote responsible water use and environmental stewardship during community engagements, barangay dialogues, and public safety campaigns. Community policing goes beyond crime prevention and includes helping citizens prepare for challenges that affect their daily lives,” he stated.
Under the “water-smart” initiative, police installations will implement practical conservation techniques, including fixing leaks promptly and installing rainwater harvesting systems where feasible. These measures align with the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s directives emphasizing local resource accountability.
Nartatez stressed that active police-community collaboration will ensure vital public safety awareness reaches vulnerable households facing extreme heat and water scarcity.
“Preparedness begins at home. Every drop of water saved today strengthens our ability to protect our families and communities during periods of scarcity,” Nartatez said.
“Let us work together with discipline and shared responsibility. By conserving water, growing food where possible, and staying informed, we can help our nation face the challenges of El Niño with resilience and unity,” he concluded.