The Philippine National Police has mobilized personnel and resources nationwide to support search-and-rescue, road-clearing, and relief operations following the destruction caused by Typhoon Inday and the southwest monsoon.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered all police units to ensure the maximum availability of ground personnel and equipment for disaster-response operations in affected communities.
Although Inday did not make landfall, the typhoon enhanced the southwest monsoon, triggering landslides and flash floods, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao.
The disasters left 18 people dead, while at least 14 others remained missing.
Police forces nationwide had earlier been placed under heightened alert status to allow their immediate deployment for typhoon-related operations.
“Your PNP has been present as early as in the preparation stage and will continue to remain active as the focus shifts to search and rescue, road-clearing, relief distribution and other disaster response,” Nartatez said.
The PNP chief also directed all chiefs of police to immediately prepare post-typhoon assessment reports that would guide policymakers in carrying out an efficient response.
The move is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to ensure the prompt delivery of government assistance to affected residents.
Nartatez said the PNP has shifted its operational focus to humanitarian assistance as communities recover from the typhoon and continuing monsoon rains.
Inday exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility at 8:20 a.m. on Saturday, but the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the southwest monsoon would continue to bring rains over several parts of the country.
“A number of our personnel are now assisting local government units, and we also have a sufficient number of personnel on standby and ready to be tapped and deployed if necessary,” Nartatez said.
Police units were also instructed to help local governments clear roads blocked by floodwaters, landslides, fallen trees, and other debris to prevent delays in relief operations.
“I also gave instructions to chiefs of police and other heads of units to assist in road-clearing operations to ensure the unhampered and swift delivery of relief items,” Nartatez said.
The PNP said the clearing operations would help reopen major roads, reconnect isolated communities and allow emergency responders and relief convoys to reach affected residents more quickly.