Policemen in the Bicol region have been directed to assist in preemptive evacuations and secure entry points to danger zones after volcanologists raised Mayon Volcano’s alert status to Level 3 in Albay.
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), emphasized that the deployment of personnel and resources is focused on safeguarding residents, particularly those living within or near the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) surrounding the volcano.
“I have already directed our personnel in the Bicol Region to extend full support to the local government units in Albay. The safety of our kababayan, especially those in danger zones, will be the top priority,” said Nartatez.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs ) raised Mayon Volcano’s alert level from 2 to 3 on January 6 due to increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption.
According to reports from the ground, police units in Camalig, Albay assisted in the evacuation of residents located within the six-kilometer PDZ. However, several residents were still hesitant to leave their homes.
Aside from preemptive evacuation, Nartatez said policemen were also tasked to conduct checkpoints in key entry points of danger zones while police visibility was intensified in various areas in Albay.
“Our approach is not to force anyone but to ensure everyone understands the risk and stays safe,” Nartatez said.
“We urge residents in surrounding areas to stay vigilant and follow all advisories from Phivolcs and their local government,” he added. (Aaron Recuenco)
