Iloilo Police Mobilize for Tropical Depression Basyang Emergency Preparedness
The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has activated a full alert status across all personnel and logistical assets in anticipation of the potential impacts from Tropical Depression Basyang. This proactive measure aims to ensure immediate emergency response and assistance to communities throughout Iloilo City, as authorities brace for adverse weather conditions.
Coordinated Disaster Response and Safety Measures
According to ICPO officer-in-charge Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla, the directive involves the mobilization of all police units, including search and rescue teams, mobile patrol units, and station-based personnel. These efforts are being closely coordinated with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to implement preemptive safety protocols and monitor real-time weather bulletins from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Parilla emphasized that community safety remains the top priority, stating, "All ICPO units are on alert and ready to respond to any emergency brought about by Tropical Depression Basyang. We urge the public to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and cooperate with authorities to ensure everyone’s safety."
Operational Deployment and Public Advisories
Under the full alert order, the following operational measures have been put in place:
- Search and rescue teams from Iloilo City Police Station units and ICPO headquarters are on standby for potential rescue and evacuation operations.
- Traffic management duties have been prioritized to maintain order and facilitate emergency movements.
- Public advisories are being disseminated, particularly in flood-prone and high-risk areas across the city.
- Mobile patrol units are monitoring critical locations such as major roads, waterways, and densely populated communities to respond swiftly to distress calls.
Police personnel have also been directed to maintain close coordination with barangay officials and local disaster response units. This ensures timely information sharing and efficient deployment of resources in case of flooding, landslides, or other weather-related incidents.
Public Safety Reminders and Emergency Contacts
The ICPO has issued reminders for residents to stay alert and updated through official announcements from authorities. In case of emergencies, the public is advised to report immediately through the following channels:
- The national 911 hotline for urgent assistance.
- The ICPO hotline at 0908-377-0194 or (033) 335-0299.
- By proceeding to the nearest police station for direct support.
This emergency preparedness initiative is anchored on the Philippine National Police (PNP) mantra, "Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas; Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman," which underscores a commitment to swift action and public service during disasters. The ICPO reiterated its dedication to protecting lives and property, assuring the community that all necessary measures are in place as weather conditions continue to be closely monitored.
