The Philippine National Police has activated extensive disaster response operations as Super Typhoon Uwan begins to impact multiple regions across the country, deploying thousands of personnel and resources to ensure public safety.
Massive Police Mobilization for Disaster Response
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed that all police units nationwide are fully prepared to handle emergencies and assist affected communities. "The PNP has long been preparing for this scenario," Nartatez stated in a Sunday announcement, emphasizing that their forces, equipment, and logistics are strategically positioned where needed most.
As of 5 a.m. Sunday, the police force had deployed 10,750 uniformed personnel across various regions including the National Capital Region, Northern and Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, Bicol, Visayas, and Mindanao. These officers are actively engaged in disaster preparedness initiatives, rescue operations, and public safety measures.
Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Measures
The PNP maintains a substantial reserve force with 11,482 members of the Reactionary Standby Support Force ready for immediate deployment if required. Additionally, nearly a thousand police vehicles and essential equipment have been prepositioned in critical areas to ensure rapid response capabilities.
Current evacuation efforts have established 996 operational evacuation centers providing shelter to more than 102,000 families, representing approximately 319,000 individuals across typhoon-affected regions. Police assistance desks have been installed at these centers to maintain safety, order, and protection for all evacuees, with special attention to vulnerable groups including the elderly, women, and children.
Transport Disruptions and Security Operations
The typhoon's impact has stranded 3,637 passengers at various seaports throughout the country. PNP Maritime Group units and regional police forces are ensuring the welfare and security of these stranded travelers while monitoring the situation.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño emphasized their security priorities: "Our focus is to maintain peace and security in evacuation areas, prevent looting or opportunistic crimes, and provide assistance where it is most needed. The men and women of the PNP are on heightened alert and ready to serve."
The Department of the Interior and Local Government has simultaneously urged more than 17,000 at-risk barangays to implement immediate precautionary measures. "Now is the time to act. Every minute counts, and every barangay must be ready. We need swift, coordinated action to keep our people safe," the DILG emphasized in their statement.
This coordinated government response follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen disaster preparedness and protect vulnerable communities as Super Typhoon Uwan continues its path across the Philippine archipelago.
