MANILA: The Philippine National Police (PNP) strengthened its disaster response operations as the southwest monsoon continued to bring heavy rainfall to vulnerable areas on Wednesday (Aug 19).
According to the PNP in a statement, 689 police officers were deployed, with patrol vehicles, buses and trucks providing “Libreng Sakay” services to transport stranded residents.
Police units have also rescued 180 individuals and supported 164 relief operations during the sustained rains.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr, meanwhile, said the PNP would prioritize personnel and resources in areas requiring the most support, emphasizing that police units remain deployed nationwide to assist affected communities.
“We will continue rescue and evacuation operations, secure evacuation centers, clear critical roads, and deliver assistance to communities that remain affected,” he said.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration or Pagasa, a week’s worth of normal rainfall was recorded on Aug. 17 from 8am to 2pm, making flooding more severe after six hours of sustained rainfall brought by the habagat.
The PNP also tasked police units to intensify monitoring of flood-prone areas and maintain order in evacuation centers, while local government units, disaster response agencies and volunteers ramped up coordination to deliver relief services. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
