PNP orders post-typhoon assessment as 'Inday' batters parts of Philippines

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday ordered all police commanders to immediately conduct post-typhoon assessments in their respective areas of responsibility to give concerned government agencies a clear picture of the situation on the ground following the effects of Typhoon "Inday."

Nartatez said post-typhoon assessments are necessary in crafting disaster management and response plans, particularly for communities that may have been severely affected by the weather disturbance.

"Every minute matters in emergency and disaster response, so my order is for every chief of police to immediately conduct post-typhoon assessments to come up with the best plan to assist all our affected kababayan," Nartatez said.

While the typhoon did not, and is not expected to, make landfall, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), its wide circulation brought strong winds and heavy rains to several areas.

Several local government units suspended classes to ensure the safety of learners. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 was hoisted over Batanes, while at least 11 provinces were placed under TCWS No. 1.

Nartatez said the post-typhoon assessments would serve as a reference in determining where to focus response and assistance efforts for affected residents.

The PNP has already mobilized a sufficient number of personnel and resources that are ready for deployment anytime and anywhere, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. to prepare for the effects of the typhoon.

Some disaster response teams were prepositioned in areas placed under tropical cyclone wind signals. All police units were also placed under heightened alert status on Thursday to maximize assistance to the public.

Aside from typhoon response, Nartatez said police forces in the Negros Island Region had also been instructed to coordinate with local government units to provide all necessary assistance to communities affected by the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island produced a moderately explosive eruption on Thursday, 9 July, with ashfall reaching parts of Cebu province.

PHIVOLCS has maintained Alert Level 2 over the volcano, indicating a moderate level of volcanic unrest.