PNP mobilizes cops, equipment as 'Basyang' pounds Visayas, Mindanao
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has mobilized its personnel and resources for preemptive evacuation and other disaster response operations amid the threat posed by tropical storm “Basyang”.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said he already directed police commanders and units in the areas along the path of the weather disturbance to be on alert and on standby for quick deployment.
“Our personnel on the ground are now on alert and on standby for deployment and quick response. We are in constant coordination with local government units and other agencies for a unified response to the affected areas,” said Nartatez.
“From the preparations stage up to post-disaster response, expect that your Philippine National Police will be there to provide assistance and ensure everyone’s safety,” he stressed.
Weather experts said “Basyang” is expected to bring heavy rains in the Visayas and Mindanao and Nartatez wants maximum police presence for assistance—from preemptive evacuation to post-disaster response.
Nartatez also ordered personnel to prepare necessary search and rescue assets and other resources to support the operations, “All necessary equipment and personnel must be prepared to respond quickly and efficiently to safeguard our communities.”
As of 7 a.m., the center of Basyang was located 385 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, with maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gusts of up to 80 kph.
The storm was moving west-southwestward, and was forecast to shift to a generally westward track before turning west-northwestward beginning Friday morning, Feb. 6.