The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified preparations in Albay and nearby areas amid the threat of lahar flows and other hazards brought by Tropical Storm “Caloy” near Mayon Volcano.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said police units in the Bicol Region have been directed to coordinate closely with local government units to ensure a unified disaster response, including possible preemptive evacuations as heavy rains threaten to trigger lahar flows in vulnerable communities.
“We are in constant coordination with various government agencies to provide all the assistance in the interest of public safety. We are prioritizing the safety of residents and ensuring access routes remain passable for emergency response,” Nartatez said.
The Office of Civil Defense earlier warned of possible lahar flows after Tropical Storm “Caloy” entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday evening.
Authorities said continuous heavy rainfall over Mayon Volcano’s slopes could loosen volcanic debris and endanger low-lying communities near river channels and flood-prone areas.
Nartatez said police personnel have been placed on standby for evacuation assistance and road-clearing operations in coordination with local government units and disaster risk reduction offices, following the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
“Our personnel are coordinating closely with local disaster risk reduction and management offices in the Bicol Region. The lahar threat is very imminent due to the rains associated with the tropical storm. We are fully prepared to assist in preemptive evacuation and clearing operations,” he added.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that lahar flows remain among the most dangerous secondary hazards associated with Mayon Volcano during heavy rains, as fast-moving mudflows have previously damaged infrastructure and displaced residents during past typhoons.
Nartatez also ordered police units to ensure the readiness of vehicles and equipment for rapid deployment, while supporting local governments in keeping evacuation routes open and assisting residents in high-risk areas.
“The PNP urges the public to follow the advisories and instructions of authorities for their own safety. We ask everyone to remain alert and cooperative, especially those living near river channels and volcanic slopes that are prone to lahar flows,” he said.