Philippine National Police acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. on Wednesday directed all affected police offices and units to intensify search and rescue operations and ensure the speedy, secured distribution of essential relief goods for families and individuals displaced by Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi).

In a statement, Nartatez said the order was part of the PNP’s multi-pronged response that prioritizes the immediate needs of the public, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to the police force to extend all forms of assistance to those affected by the typhoon.

He said more than 9,000 police personnel and over 300 mobiles were deployed for evacuation, rescue operations, and other humanitarian assistance as Tino devastates parts of the country.

“The damage brought by this typhoon is extensive, especially in the Visayas, as we have seen in the videos and photos shared by our netizens on social media. We assure our kababayan (countrymen) that your Philippine National Police is on the ground and working hard for fast and coordinated efforts with other government agencies providing all the necessary assistance,” said Nartatez.

He also directed local police offices to conduct an internal assessment to determine the operational impact of the storm on the police force itself.

This, after the PNP reported that a total of 66 personnel were affected by the typhoon, including 60 uniformed officers and six non-uniformed personnel while eight police stations were damaged.

“I have directed the local police chiefs to assess and account for the number of police stations that are damaged amid the bad weather. I guarantee that this will also be given attention by the national headquarters. Agad din nating tutulungan ang mga kabaro natin na nasalanta ng bagyo, maging ang kanilang pamilya (We will also immediately help cops who were affected by the typhoon, as well as their families),” he said.

At a press briefing held at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson and information chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said coordination continues with the various government agencies for an effective and unified response.

“The PNP will remain on duty without pause. Protecting lives, maintaining peace and order, and supporting communities are our foremost priorities. We urge everyone to follow advisories, evacuate early if necessary, and trust our personnel to assist in keeping families safe,” Tuaño said.

Tino has slightly intensified as it continues to move away from northern Palawan and over the West Philippine Sea, the state weather bureau said Wednesday.

PAGASA said Tino will continue to move west-northwestward over the West Philippine Sea and is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Wednesday night or early Thursday morning. (PNA)