Capiz cops on mission to help 'Frank' victims
ROXAS CITY – All Capiz cops are on full alert since the start of typhoon Frank lambasted the province of Capiz.
Capiz Provincial Director Roberto Villanueva of the Philippine National Police (PNP) said that the police in the province are all tied up with their respective Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council (MDCC) for the rescue, relief and evacuation operations.
Villanueva said that so far, there is no problem as to the peace and order situation of the province of Capiz.
PNP Chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. revealed that the PNP has earlier activated their Oplan "Sagip" in typhoon affected regions, particularly in Eastern Visayas, Western Visayas, Southern and Central Mindanao, Caraga Region, Bicol Region, Southern Luzon, and Metro Manila.
He said that all units of the PNP were alerted for possible disaster rescue and relief operations in areas affected by typhoon Frank.
Razon added that all PNP units on said areas were given orders to closely coordinate with local government units for implementation of their respective disaster management plans.
"I have ordered all Regional Directors in affected regions to exercise their authority as Chairman of their respective Regional Disaster Coordinating Councils (RDCC) in spearheading all disaster management operations," Razon said.
He directed all Regional Directors to ensure the availability of all personnel and resources to assist in rescue, evacuation and relief operations. These include police vehicles with lift capability that can be used in evacuation operations such as heavy trucks, troop carriers, and patrol vehicles.
Razon said that the Special Action Force and Maritime Group which have units that specialize in disaster operations are on standby alert for possible deployment to affected areas.
He also alerted the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to assist local PNP units in monitoring market activities in coordination with local offices of the Department of Trade and Industry and government units to prevent unscrupulous traders, hoarders and profiteers from taking advantage of the emergency situation. (PIA/Jemin B. Guillermo)