Manila: Philippine Army (PA) units have joined efforts to bring assistance and relief to communities severely affected by the combined effects of Severe Tropical Storm Crising and the southwest monsoon (habagat). In a statement on Monday, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala noted the collaboration between major Army units and local government responders to evacuate residents, distribute emergency relief goods, and conduct road-clearing and damage assessment operations in severely impacted areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, in Western Visayas and Negros Island, troops from the 3rd Infantry Division have been deployed for road-clearing operations, ensuring isolated communities remain accessible. In Ilocos Norte, soldiers from the 5th Infantry Division coordinated with officials from Barangay Elizabeth in Marcos town for infrastructure assessments and evaluating damage to homes and public facilities. They also distributed 1,000 food packs to families in Barangay 16, San Nicolas, Pangasinan.
Furthermore, the 8th Infantry Division has mobilized its disaster rescue and response unit in Eastern Visayas, with five specialized teams ready for immediate action. Col. Dema-ala emphasized the PA's commitment to supporting local government units, law enforcement agencies, and disaster response councils, especially as another low-pressure area threatens to increase rainfall in the coming days. These operations form part of a coordinated national response under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, aiming to deliver effective and community-focused disaster relief across the country.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has been actively involved in rescue and response operations. PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III reported that police personnel assisted around 276 individuals during rescue operations amidst the severe weather conditions. Additionally, police have supported approximately 35,000 individuals in evacuation centers. Nearly 3,000 police officers were deployed for disaster response, with an extra 7,000 on standby as part of the reactionary support force. Despite some equipment damage and 62 police personnel affected by the weather disturbances, the PNP continues to coordinate with local government units and other agencies to ensure public safety.
