Clearing the lifeline: Nartatez orders Bicol cops to assist in road-clearing in 'Ada' affected areas
photo: PNP
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio. C. Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered police commanders in Bicol Region to assist in the road-clearing and other disaster response measures in areas severely affected by tropical storm “Ada”.
Catanduanes is one of the areas which reported adverse effects of the weather disturbance and Nartatez emphasized the necessity of road-clearing as cleared roads serve as lifeline for relief goods and other emergency support to affected residents.
“I have instructed our commanders and personnel in Bicol to work closely with local officials in clearing roads to ensure that relief reaches affected communities as quickly as possible,” Nartatez said.
“The safety and welfare of our residents remain our top priority as Tropical Storm Ada continues to affect parts of Bicol,” he added.
Weather experts said “Ada” is expected to move generally northeastward until Monday before following a looping track over the sea east of Luzon.
Landslides have been reported in some parts of Bicol due to the storm.
Old lahar deposits caused knee-high floods along the Guinobatan–Mayon Road in Barangay Masarawag. The floods were accompanied by sand and rock debris, which trapped some motorists. Some roads were also blocked entirely by lahar deposits.
Nartatez confirmed that the PNP is assessing if any police personnel or facilities were affected by the storm. He assured that immediate assistance will be provided to those impacted.
“We are evaluating the impact of Ada on our officers and police stations. Support and aid will be immediately provided to anyone affected,” he said.