With roads buried in ash and visibility dropping to dangerous levels, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up clearing operations across Albay to ensure that emergency responders and relief convoys can reach communities affected by the recent unrest of Mayon Volcano.
Acting on the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the PNP mobilized personnel and equipment to assist in debris removal and road clearing in key areas hit by heavy ashfall. Police units were immediately deployed to the towns of Camalig, Guinobatan, and Ligao City following the pyroclastic density current recorded on May 2, which blanketed parts of the province and disrupted mobility.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said officers have been on the ground since the early stages of volcanic activity, working closely with local government units and partner-agencies to restore access routes and support ongoing relief efforts.
“Our personnel are already on the ground since Day 1 of the volcano activity and we are continuously supporting cleanup operations in coordination with local government units and other agencies,” he pointed out.
Beyond clearing operations, police units have been tasked to secure major roads where ashfall has created hazardous driving conditions. Additional traffic personnel from Police Regional Office 5 were deployed to guide motorists through ash-covered routes, using patrol lights and real-time advisories to prevent accidents amid near-zero visibility.
Authorities also enhanced their operational capacity by equipping mobile units with specialized search-and-rescue tools and high-powered lighting systems, allowing teams to continue work even in low-visibility or nighttime conditions. These upgrades are seen as crucial in reaching remote barangays where thick ash deposits have rendered roads impassable.
Nartatez emphasized that the PNP’s rapid response reflects its commitment to public safety and the government’s goal of preventing casualties amid the ongoing volcanic threat.
“Following the President’s order, the PNP was on the ground within hours of the initial ashfall. We have mobilized sufficient personnel and resources to ensure that every affected barangay feels the police presence,” he said.