Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has issued a directive for all police offices to prepare for the potential impact of Tropical Depression Wilma. The order, given on Friday, emphasizes readiness and public safety as the weather disturbance approaches the country.
Police Units on Standby for Government Response
In a statement, Nartatez outlined the PNP's strategy, which focuses on maximizing and strategizing the government's response through close coordination. He confirmed that police personnel on the ground are already on alert status. Coordination with local government units (LGUs) and other concerned agencies is a top priority to ensure a unified effort.
"Our personnel on the ground were already alerted and they are ready," Nartatez stated. He detailed that the collaborative efforts would cover critical safety measures, including preemptive evacuation procedures and the prepositioning of mobility and rescue assets in vulnerable areas.
Following Presidential Directive for Weather Disturbances
The PNP's mobilization aligns with the directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who has instructed the police force to ensure all government agencies, especially uniformed personnel, remain on standby for any weather-related emergencies. Nartatez reminded his officers to continuously monitor forecasts from PAGASA, the state weather bureau, to guide their preparations effectively.
All necessary assets are being readied to support emergency operations and preemptive evacuations should the situation require them. This proactive stance aims to minimize risks and ensure a swift response to any crisis caused by Tropical Depression Wilma.
Community Cooperation Urged for Safety
Beyond government preparations, Lt. Gen. Nartatez also addressed the public directly. He encouraged local communities to stay informed and vigilant by monitoring official weather updates from reliable sources. Cooperation with authorities is deemed essential for everyone's safety.
"He also encouraged local communities to stay informed, monitor official weather updates, and cooperate with authorities in ensuring their safety amid the possible effects of the weather disturbance," the statement concluded. This call to action underscores the shared responsibility between responders and citizens in facing natural disasters.
