Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) is deploying full security support to protect local development projects, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen local government support and ensure projects reach communities. All regional and provincial directors were directed to collaborate with local government units (LGUs) to ensure that vital infrastructure and social services reach the communities without interference from criminal elements or security threats.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized the police force's responsibility to safeguard public funds allocated for community projects. "We in the Philippine National Police have the obligation to protect every single centavo of the Filipino people's money that will be spent in these projects. That is our mandate and that is our commitment," Nartatez stated.

President Marcos met with mayors and governors at Malaca±ang in Manila to launch the "Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Bayan Makikinabang" (In the New Philippines, Every Town Will Benefit) program. This initiative aims to strengthen national government support for local units by fast-tracking the implementation of the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF). Through the program, local government units can directly request funding for projects that address the specific needs of their communities.

To support the President's initiative, Nartatez stated the PNP will enhance collaboration with barangay peacekeeping units to augment police presence in communities and deter criminal activities. He reaffirmed the PNP's commitment to protecting the integrity of community development programs and maintaining public trust in government services.

"All local police chiefs have been instructed to prioritize barangay-level security monitoring, ensuring that construction sites, distribution points, and project areas are protected 24/7," Nartatez added.