PNP mobilizes personnel for disaster response as 'Inday' leaves trail of destruction
NARTATEZ (PNP FB)
Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered all commanders to mobilize sufficient number of policemen and resources to assist in disaster response after typhoon “Inday” and the southwest monsoon or habagat, left a trail of destruction especially in Visayas and Mindanao.
At least 18 people died while 14 others were missing as a result of the flash flood and landslides that hit some areas in Visayas and Mindanao.
Nartatez said pforces across the country were earlier placed under heightened alert status for immediate deployment for the typhoon response.
“Your PNP has been present as early as in the preparation stage and will continue to remain active as the focus shifts to search and rescue, road-clearing, relief distribution and other disaster response,” said Nartatez.
Nartatez earlier ordered all chiefs of police to immediately conduct a post-typhoon assessment report that will serve as a guidance to policy-makers in the efficient response.
He said the PNP shifted its operational focus to humanitarian assistance as communities recover from the effects of the typhoon and continuous monsoon rains.
While “Inday” exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility at 8:20 a.m. on Saturday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said the southwest monsoon continues to bring rains over several parts of the country.
“A number of our personnel are now assisting local government units and we also have a sufficient number of personnel on standby and ready to be tapped and deployed if necessary,” said Nartatez.
He also said police units have been directed to assist local government units in clearing roads blocked by floods, landslides, fallen trees, and other debris to ensure relief operations proceed without delay.
He said road-clearing efforts will help reopen major roads, reconnect isolated communities, and allow emergency responders and relief convoys to reach affected residents more quickly.