PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief General Dionardo B. Carlos yesterday ordered all concerned police regional offices to lead post-disaster operations including search, rescue and relief drives in their areas devastated by super typhoon ‘Odette.’

A week before Christmas, several areas in Visayas, Mindanao, and Palawan are still without electricity and other basic utilities that were knocked down by the ‘Odette’ prompting the PNP chief to instruct his men on the ground to continuously provide manpower and logistical support to deeply affected local government units, especially those who have been declared under the state of calamity.

“Our personnel will focus efforts in securing the evacuation centers, road clearing operations, and assisting in relief operations. We have to secure the peace and order situation in these areas and at the same time oversee the implementation of health protocols,” Carlos said.

All available police resources including search-and-rescue equipment and land, air and water assets have already been deployed in the hardest-hit areas. Since the power supply has not been restored in some areas, the top cop called on his men so that there will be no looting of establishments.

He also commended his personnel who have assisted in the pre-emptive evacuation of the residents as well as in ongoing search-and-rescue and clearing operations.

“We are grateful to our personnel who have extended their assistance in different ways that they can. We have seen their dedication and unwavering strength in helping our fellow Filipinos even if they were also victims of the typhoon,” said the PNP chief.

The Police Regional Offices 4-A, 6, 7, 8, and 13 are currently closely coordinating with LGUs and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices in their areas to synchronize their efforts in helping the people affected by the typhoon.

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Alfred P. Dalizon