The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) warned individuals and private businesses against hoarding essential goods, such as food, water, and water containers, due to the threat posed by the Super El Niño.

NCRPO Officer-in-Charge PBGen. Christopher Abrahano tasked five police districts and all Metro Manila police stations to ramp up their monitoring of public markets, commercial establishments, and other similar places and coordinate with local government units (LGUs) and relevant government agencies.

Abrahano said reports of hoarding, price manipulation and other possible violations of the Consumer Protection Law should be verified and referred to concerned authorities for appropriate action.

Although the supply and pricing of basic commodities fall under the mandate of the concerned regulatory agencies, police will maintain their presence and remain ready to respond to any public disturbances that may arise from competition over essential goods.

In addition, Abrahano issued a directive to police commanders to coordinate with local officials and community leaders to curb panic buying, misinformation, and disputes that could threaten public safety.