PNP activates health, emergency teams for Mayon-affected residents in Bicol

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has activated its health and emergency response teams in the Bicol Region to assist residents affected by the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano.

PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the directive covers the Police Regional Office in Bicol Region (PRO-5) and aims to ensure both the safety and medical welfare of communities near the volcano.

Aside from deploying police personnel to maintain peace and order, Nartatez said the PNP is also prioritizing the health needs of evacuees and residents in affected areas.

“I have directed the activation of emergency and health response teams in the area to ensure the protection and safety of residents’ health amid the ongoing volcanic activity,” Nartatez said.

He emphasized that health services are a key component of disaster response, noting that the PNP is prepared to provide medical triage and psychological first aid to affected individuals.

“Kalusugan ang isa sa mga prayoridad natin kapag may pagaalburoto ng bulkan sa ating bansa (Health is one of our priorities whenever there is volcanic activity in our country),” he said.

Nartatez added that the PNP will closely coordinate with the Department of Health (DOH), citing the availability of police doctors and physicians who can work alongside DOH medical personnel on the ground.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3, indicating intensified or magmatic unrest. PHIVOLCS said the current activity is comparable to the volcano’s 2023 eruption.

Authorities reported that more than 2,000 individuals have already been evacuated from their homes due to the volcanic activity.

Nartatez has also ordered increased police visibility in evacuation centers and nearby communities to ensure public safety and prevent possible security concerns. 

He said police units in neighboring areas are on standby to provide additional assistance if the situation escalates.

“We are committed to keeping the community safe. Our officers are visible on the ground, and additional units from neighboring areas are ready to respond whenever needed,” Nartatez said.