Manila: Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Wednesday alerted police units in Southern Luzon as Tropical Depression Mirasol threatens to bring heavy rains, flooding, and possible landslides in vulnerable areas. Nartatez said the order is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the safety of everybody and pursue a goal of zero casualty.
According to Philippines News Agency, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the low pressure area being monitored east of Quezon province has developed into Tropical Depression Mirasol. It is forecast to continue moving northwestward and will slightly decelerate as it approaches the Isabela-Aurora area.
Nartatez has directed police commanders in the affected areas to coordinate with local government units and disaster response agencies for a unified effort to ensure public safety. The police response includes prepositioning police personnel, equipment, and mobility assets in identified high-risk provinces to ensure immediate response when necessary.
The PNP is also focusing on the welfare of its personnel, providing them with proper protective equipment and rotating deployments when needed. Contingency measures, such as medical teams and relief supplies, are in place to ensure that police duties can continue without compromising their safety.
Furthermore, Nartatez stated that the PNP is working closely with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), local government units, and other agencies to ensure seamless deployment of resources and rapid assistance to affected residents.
Meanwhile, the PNP responded to a landslide incident in Agusan del Sur that left two people dead and four others missing. Nartatez has directed the Caraga police regional director to ensure the availability of personnel and equipment for the recovery of those missing after the landslide in Purok 1, Barangay Mahayahay in the municipality of San Luis.
The landslide site is around 30 kilometers from the police station and lacks communication signals. The operation has been challenged by bad weather conditions, leading to the suspension of search and rescue efforts twice due to heavy rains. However, efforts resumed Wednesday, with five backhoes, two dump trucks, and one grader equipment being used.
Nartatez emphasized the commitment to continue operations until all missing persons are accounted for and affected areas are cleared. He also praised those involved in the operation for their swift action.
