Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday placed its emergency and disaster response units on alert to ensure rapid assistance to communities as Typhoon Francisco (international name: Mekkhala) intensifies and enhances the southwest monsoon (habagat). PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered the activation of emergency response teams nationwide as weather conditions continue to develop over the Philippine Sea.

According to Philippines News Agency, police units on the ground are observing disaster response protocols, and coordination with local authorities is in place to ensure a unified and swift response for the safety of the public. Gen. Nartatez emphasized that coordination with local government units remains a priority to ensure a timely and coordinated response and maintain public safety in affected areas.

"Our personnel are on alert to ensure the safety of residents, and we will continue to work with local government units on preemptive evacuations and other operations to protect all our kababayan in affected communities," Nartatez stated. The PNP chief urged the public to remain vigilant and follow official advisories as weather conditions continue to change in the coming days.

As of 5 a.m. Monday, several areas in Northern Luzon were under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 due to the cyclone, including Batanes and the northeastern portion of Cagayan (Gonzaga and Santa Ana), as well as the eastern portion of the Babuyan Islands (Babuyan Island, Didicas Island and Camiguin Island). PAGASA reported that Francisco is forecast to intensify further and may reach its peak intensity by Tuesday.