The Philippine National Police (PNP) has raised the alert level across all its regional offices and key operational units as Typhoon “Inday” (internationally known as Bavi) draws closer to northern Luzon, prompting preparations for potential flooding, strong winds, and other weather-related emergencies.
Heightened Operational Readiness
PNP Public Information Office chief Colonel Allen Rae Co announced that the police organization has activated its disaster preparedness measures to safeguard communities in the typhoon’s path. “In anticipation of the possible effects of Typhoon Bavi, the Philippine National Police has placed all Police Regional Offices, National Support Units, and other concerned units on heightened operational readiness to ensure the safety and security of the public,” Co stated during a press briefing at Camp Crame.
According to the PNP, Search, Rescue, and Retrieval (SRR) teams, Quick Response Teams (QRTs), and other disaster response personnel are now on standby for immediate deployment as needed. The force has also inspected and prepositioned rescue equipment, patrol vehicles, communication assets, and other emergency response resources in areas expected to be hit hardest by the typhoon.
Coordination with Disaster Agencies
Co emphasized that police units nationwide are closely coordinating with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), local government units, and other emergency response agencies. This coordination includes assisting in preemptive evacuation efforts, securing evacuation centers, maintaining peace and order, managing traffic, and providing other public safety services before, during, and after the typhoon’s passage.
The PNP has directed all police commanders to continuously monitor weather conditions in their respective areas of responsibility and ensure an immediate response to emergencies and requests for assistance. “The PNP remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted police services and the protection of lives and property throughout the duration of this weather disturbance,” Co said.
Typhoon Inday’s Status
Typhoon Inday slightly weakened on Thursday morning but remains a powerful cyclone as it moves northwestward over the Philippine Sea. The state weather bureau has warned of strong winds, heavy rains, rough seas, and other potential hazards in parts of Northern Luzon and areas affected by the enhanced southwest monsoon. “Rest assured that the Philippine National Police stands ready to respond and will continue working alongside our partner agencies to safeguard our communities before, during, and after the passage of Typhoon Bavi,” Co added.
