Ilocos Norte police go on full alert

With just 46 days before Christmas, Ilocos Norte finds itself preparing for a very different kind of season — as super typhoon "Uwan" barrels toward Northern Luzon.

The Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) has placed all its units on highest alert status, activating full disaster-preparedness protocols to keep communities safe and ensure police readiness across the province.

Police Colonel Joemar Labiano, INPPO Provincial Director, told the DAILY TRIBUNE that officers have been ordered to put their families’ safety first before heading out to serve.

“Let’s make sure our families are safe so we can fully perform our duties during the typhoon,” Labiano said.

Across the province, police stations are now checking and preparing search-and-rescue gear — including ropes, chainsaws, generators, flashlights, and radios. Officers have been advised to stock up on instant food, drinking water, and solar lights, and to fill up the fuel tanks of patrol vehicles and personal mobility units for use in emergencies.

Tree pruning around police stations and residential areas has also been encouraged to minimize damage from strong winds. Labiano reminded officers to prepare analogue two-way radios, in case network disruptions make digital systems unusable.

“Those with Starlink systems are fortunate, as long as there’s power,” he noted, adding that extra caution should be taken when using candles during blackouts to avoid fire incidents.

As part of its province-wide response, INPPO has launched Oplan “Ag-Cecilpo,” a comprehensive operation covering Search, Rescue, Retrieval, Relief and Rehabilitation. Another initiative, Oplan “Bandillo,” focuses on public information, ensuring residents receive timely updates through barangay coordination, social media, and community chat groups.

All police leaves have been canceled, and day-offs suspended, except for emergencies. “This is a time for readiness and unity,” Labiano said. “Our duty is to protect, assist, and ensure that Ilocos Norte remains safe before, during, and after the storm.”

The INPPO continues to work closely with local government units, disaster risk reduction councils, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines for coordinated preemptive evacuations, rescue operations, and relief logistics throughout the province.

As "Uwan" approaches, Ilocos Norte’s men and women in uniform are standing guard — ready to serve, protect, and help rebuild when the storm passes.