The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed all its units across the country on high alert, ordering the immediate activation of disaster response protocols ahead of the impending wet season.
The directive aims to beef up flood and cyclone response operations, particularly in vulnerable communities. Local and regional police offices have been instructed to maximize their preparedness and guarantee a swift response capability before the heavy rains officially set in.
In a statement released Friday, PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that strategies are already being laid out on the ground to mitigate the impact of potential severe weather.
”Police units in flood- and landslide-prone areas are now coordinating closely with local disaster councils for planning on preemptive evacuation, traffic management, and rescue operations,” Nartatez said.
The state weather bureau, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), previously projected that the rainy season could begin between the last week of May and the first week of June.
PAGASA added that ongoing localized thunderstorms and scattered rains are already affecting parts of the country, raising the risk of landslides and sudden flooding in high-risk zones.
In anticipation of these hazards, Nartatez noted that specialized search-and-rescue units and quick reaction teams are being strategically positioned in typhoon-prone regions.
Furthermore, police assistance desks will be deployed to aid stranded commuters and displaced residents, a move being coordinated alongside local government units (LGUs) and disaster response councils.
“We are reminding all commanders to inspect rescue equipment, prepare deployment teams, and maintain 24/7 readiness during periods of heavy rainfall and tropical cyclones,” Nartatez stated.
“Our personnel are ready to assist in rescue, evacuation, and humanitarian operations whenever needed.”
The PNP chief also called on citizens to do their part by cooperating with local evacuation orders and staying vigilant.
The heightened police mobilization complies with the directives of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to prioritize public safety and zero casualties during natural calamities.