Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed commanders of territorial units Thursday to coordinate with concerned government agencies in relation to the distribution of fuel subsidy to drivers and operators affected by oil price hikes.
While the distribution is normally coursed through fuel subsidy cards, there are a number of instances that the subsidy distribution is done manually, especially in the provinces.
As such, Nartatez said it is important that coordination is done to prepare all the necessary security measures to ensure fast, smooth and orderly distribution of the cash assistance.
“The presence of policemen is important in this kind of activity. Our goal has always been the protection and welfare of everybody,” the PNP chief said.
On Wednesday, the Department of Transportation announced the distribution of fuel subsidy worth P5,000 starting next week, the first wave of the distribution will be done in Metro Manila and eventually to the provinces.
The DOTr said it will be working with other government agencies like the DSWD, the DILG and the local government units for the distribution.
Nartatez said providing security for similar activities is a task the PNP is familiar with, citing past cash distribution.
“Our officers are trained to ensure the process is orderly and that every beneficiary is protected,” he said.
He recalled that the PNP undertook a similar role during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when police officers were deployed to secure aid rollouts, ensuring orderly distribution and public safety amid challenging conditions.
To ensure smooth operations, Nartatez tasked the heads of local police offices to properly deploy their personnel at the cash distribution venues to public utility drivers affected by the oil price hikes.
“This is part of our commitment to fulfill the President’s directive to ensure a fast and smooth delivery of assistance to those affected by this recent economic challenge,” he said.
