Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., has instructed all police commanders to promptly carry out post-typhoon assessments in their respective jurisdictions to provide concerned government agencies with a clear understanding of the situation on the ground following the effects of Typhoon Inday as it exits the Philippines. Nartatez emphasized the importance of these assessments in developing effective disaster management and response plans, particularly in communities that have been significantly impacted by the weather disturbance.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, "Every minute matters in emergency and disaster responses, so my order is for every chief of police to immediately conduct post-typhoon assessments to come up with the best plan to assist all our affected kababayan." Although the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration indicated that the typhoon did not and is not expected to make landfall, its extensive coverage area has led to strong winds and heavy rains affecting multiple regions.
In response to the typhoon, several local government units made the decision to suspend classes to ensure the safety of students. Storm Signal No. 2 was raised over Batanes, while at least 11 provinces were placed under Storm Signal No. 1. The post-typhoon assessments conducted by the PNP will serve as a reference for determining where to focus response efforts and aid for the affected residents.
The PNP has already mobilized a sufficient number of personnel and resources, ready for deployment at any time and location, in accordance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to prepare for the typhoon's effects. Certain disaster response teams have been prepositioned, particularly in areas under storm signals, and all police units have been placed on heightened alert status to maximize assistance.
In addition to the typhoon response, Nartatez mentioned that police forces in the Negros Islands have been tasked with coordinating with local government units to provide necessary assistance following the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported a moderately explosive eruption on Thursday, resulting in ashfall reaching parts of Cebu province. Phivolcs has maintained Alert Level 2 over the volcano, indicating a moderate level of unrest.
