Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced its commitment to providing necessary aid to its personnel who were severely impacted by a series of recent typhoons that hit the country. This assurance was made on Wednesday, highlighting the PNP’s efforts to support those affected by the adverse weather conditions.
According to Philippines News Agency, data from the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR) reveals that a total of 4,781 police personnel were affected in the wake of three major tropical cyclones. The breakdown includes 3,964 personnel impacted by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami), 43 affected by Super Typhoon Ofel (Usagi), and 774 by Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi).
Maj. Gen. Roderick Augustus Alba, the PNP Director for Police Community Relations, emphasized the role of the Police Community Affairs and Development Group (PCADG) in facilitating the distribution of aid. “Our PCADG makes it easier for organizations to extend support to our personnel. We
have the means, we can deploy personnel to provide relief aid,” Alba stated. He noted that some officers suffered injuries and damage to their homes, police stations, and vehicles due to the consecutive typhoons.
Alba highlighted that the majority of the affected personnel are based in Catanduanes province and parts of Northern Luzon. He mentioned that in some cases, recipients in the Police Regional Offices (PROs) prefer cash aid as it is the fastest form of assistance. “You cannot call it relief if it comes after two weeks. Aid must be distributed within two to three days,” he explained.
To ensure transparency and accountability, Alba assured that the process of assistance distribution is well-documented. “May official reports sila na natanggap nila yung pera (They have official reports indicating that they have received the money),” he confirmed.
In response to Malacañang’s directive, the PNP plans to avoid extravagant Christmas celebrations to stand in solidarity with those affected by the typhoons. Al
ba stated that the PNP is awaiting official communication from Malacañang or the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) regarding this matter. He added that celebrations have never been a priority for the PNP, as their focus remains on securing streets and communities, even during the festive season.
