Manila: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has placed all its officers across the country on 'full alert status' or 'code red' in response to the effects of the bad weather brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat), Tropical Storm Dante, and Tropical Depression Emong.
According to Philippines News Agency, the BFP stated that 35,517 personnel along with 4,860 fire trucks, 314 ambulances, 87 rescue trucks, and 60 rubber and rigid boats were deployed to support ongoing emergency response operations as of 6 a.m. on Wednesday. The BFP reported that nine individuals were still missing while three bodies were recovered, and 251 individuals were rescued from the areas affected by the heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (HPG) spokesperson Lt. Nadame Malang announced that 84 HPG cops have been deployed in Metro Manila to aid emergency response. Malang noted that the PNP's traffic unit had 22 mobility assets circulating throughout Metro Manila to assist those impacted by flooding. He stated, '[Sila ay] umiikot sa ating major thoroughfares within NCR (National Capital Region) para tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. Naka-standby ang PNP HPG para sa assistance ng road clearing operations.'
Earlier in the day, PNP chief information officer Brig. Gen. Randulf Tua±o reported that approximately 4,000 police officers have been assigned to assist local government units nationwide in ongoing disaster response efforts in affected communities. Additionally, another 6,000 police personnel have been placed on standby across the country for possible deployment. Tua±o mentioned that PNP units have been actively participating in search and rescue operations, with a total of 382 individuals rescued from floods as of Tuesday night.
State weather forecasters indicated that both Emong and Dante are enhancing the southwest monsoon, which is expected to bring strong to gale-force gusts across much of Luzon and the Visayas.
In a related advisory, the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) reiterated the importance of carrying a whistle, which serves as a lifesaver during disasters and as an effective anti-crime tool. Maj. Marcy Grace Marron, BCPO information officer, emphasized the utility of a whistle in emergencies and its potential to deter criminal activity. Marron advised individuals to avoid walking alone in dark places and suggested carrying a whistle to attract attention and seek help if needed.
