The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have jointly issued an advisory reminding local government units (LGUs) and police personnel to prioritize the protection of lives during preemptive and forced evacuations in high-risk areas.
In the advisory on Sunday, the DILG and PNP emphasized that saving lives, such as implementing pre-emptive evacuation, must remain the top priority during disasters and emergencies.
Local officials should act “with both firmness and compassion” when carrying out evacuations.
“All means of persuasion must be used to convince residents to move to safer ground,” the statement read.
“Explain clearly that evacuation is a measure to protect lives, not to take away their rights or property.”
However, the advisory also clarified that if residents persist in refusing to leave despite repeated warnings and the presence of imminent danger, LGUs and police forces are authorized to enforce mandatory evacuation under Republic Act No. 10121, or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, and the Local Government Code.
The DILG and PNP underscored that enforcement actions must be carried out “peacefully, respectfully, and with proper documentation.”
Authorities are also required to ensure that evacuees have access to adequate transportation, shelter, food, and medical assistance, particularly for the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
“The DILG and PNP call on all local leaders to act quickly and humanely. Protect every Filipino life. No one should be left behind,” the statement read.