Police officers rescued a 14-year-old Grade 8 student found in distress on Marcelo Fernan Bridge in Cebu on Monday, October 13, 2026, after a closed-circuit television monitoring operator raised an alert, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
According to a statement from the PNP Public Information Office, duty personnel monitoring Metro Cebu's CCTV network spotted the girl in danger on the bridge and immediately reported the situation to responding units.
Maritime Unit Reaches Student on Bridge
Personnel from the Headquarters Regional Maritime Unit 7 (HRMU 7), led by Patrolman Eddie Anthony G. Corañes, responded to the alert and brought the student to safety, the PNP said.
The student, enrolled at a national high school in Lapu-Lapu City, was transported to the HRMU 7 office aboard a patrol car for documentation, appropriate disposition, and medical examination, according to the PNP. Her name was not released in line with protections for minors.
PNP Chief Praises Officers' Decisive Action
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the officers who responded to the incident.
"Our officers must recognize the urgency of every situation where a life is at risk. Their decisive response in this incident demonstrates the responsibility and vigilance expected of every police officer," Nartatez said.
In a separate statement in Filipino, Nartatez said young people facing serious problems need understanding, guidance, and support, and that it is important for them to feel that people are ready to listen and help when needed.
Rescue Cited Under PNP Focused Agenda
The PNP said the rescue reflects its Focused Agenda, specifically the components on enhanced police operations and community support. The incident underscores the role that CCTV surveillance infrastructure plays in enabling rapid emergency response in urban areas.
Crisis Hotlines Available 24/7
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available around the clock. The National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline can be reached at 1553 (landline), 0917-899-8727 (Globe/TM), or 0919-057-1553 (Smart/TNT).
In Cebu and Central Visayas, Tawag Paglaum–Centro Bisaya can be reached at 0939-937-5433 or 0939-936-5433 (Smart/Sun/TNT) and 0927-654-1629 (Globe/TM). For emergencies, dial 911.
Why This Matters
The incident highlights how CCTV monitoring networks can serve a direct life-saving function beyond traffic and crime deterrence, enabling authorities to respond swiftly to individuals in crisis. PNP Chief Nartatez's public commendation signals the importance the national police leadership places on mental health-aware, community-oriented policing. The availability of dedicated crisis hotlines in Central Visayas provides an immediate resource for individuals and families seeking support.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of the Philippine National Police (PNP)