The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed all its police units nationwide to implement a “balanced” operational approach, simultaneously sustaining humanitarian missions in areas devastated by Typhoon Tino and executing preemptive preparedness measures for the impact of a potential super typhoon this weekend. The twin directive aims to prevent operational gaps as the country faces multiple, successive weather crises.
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued the guidance on Friday, emphasizing that the police force must ensure high levels of readiness and response capability for both ongoing relief efforts and the approaching Severe Tropical Storm Fung-wong. This mobilization is in line with the direct orders from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the guidance provided by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
Nartatez underscored the importance of an equitable deployment strategy for police personnel and logistical assets. This strategy is essential to avoid creating security and disaster response vacuums in areas still reeling from Typhoon Tino’s effects, while simultaneously positioning resources in high-risk zones anticipating the incoming cyclone, which will be locally named Uwan upon entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
“I have instructed regional offices to assess and determine the deployment of police officers so that we can also prepare in the areas that will be hit by the incoming cyclone,” General Nartatez said. He affirmed that security and ongoing relief operations in Tino-affected regions—especially those suffering significant casualties and displacement—remain a top priority for the national police force.
A comprehensive accounting of all available police assets has been ordered by General Nartatez to local police commanders. This inventory includes critical equipment such as rescue vehicles, communication devices, and logistics supplies. These resources must be strategically and immediately positioned to cover both the current response zones and the new areas identified as vulnerable to the powerful impact of Uwan.
The PNP is also enforcing heightened police visibility in communities affected by Typhoon Tino. This measure is specifically designed to deter criminal activity, with General Nartatez warning of a zero-tolerance policy against lawlessness. “The police are also on the lookout for possible looting incidents in the areas affected by Tino,” he stated, assuring that stringent security will be maintained during the crisis.
The PNP assured the public that it is working in close and continuous coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and local government units (LGUs). This collaborative effort is crucial to ensure sustained and effective rescue, relief, and recovery operations across the nation as the police force balances humanitarian duties with preemptive preparations for a possible super typhoon.
