The Philippine National Police (PNP) has mobilized personnel and equipment to assist communities hit by tropical storm “Verbena,” which has affected over 200,000 residents across Western Visayas and the Negros Island Region.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reported that units are actively evacuating residents from high-risk areas, securing evacuation centers, and supporting disaster response. “We deployed all available resources to assist our countrymen — from rescue operations to maintaining order in evacuation sites,” Nartatez said.

In Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, police rescued families stranded by rising floodwaters in Sitio Plywood, Barangay Ubos. Units in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental conducted river monitoring, accounting of evacuees, and safe transport for displaced residents. The Maritime Police of Negros Occidental carried out rescue and clearing operations in flooded Bacolod City. In Cebu, joint efforts between police, LGUs, and emergency responders rescued residents trapped by flash floods in Carcar City and assisted elderly evacuees in Dumanjug.

The storm’s impact is severe. In Western Visayas, Office of Civil Defense Region 6 reported 11,860 families — more than 35,000 individuals — affected, with Capiz hit hardest. At least 85 houses were destroyed. Across the Negros Island Region, nearly 45,000 families or 169,000 individuals were affected, primarily in Negros Occidental. More than 2,800 families were pre-emptively evacuated, preventing casualties.

Humanitarian assistance is ongoing. LGUs and the Department of Social Welfare and Development have delivered over P190,000 worth of food packs and essential items. Authorities warn that the number of affected families may rise as assessments in remote and upland areas continue.

Nartatez reminded the public to follow evacuation orders, avoid flooded roads, and report emergencies to local police stations or official hotlines. Some residents initially refused evacuation, prompting police to provide counseling and safety guidance.

“Our operations are continuous. We are committed to bringing every stranded family to safety while maintaining order in evacuation centers and relief distribution sites,” Nartatez said.