Camp BGen Simeon A Ola, Legazpi City — In its ongoing mission to extend help and support to those stricken by Tropical Storm Kristine, Police Regional Office 5 (PRO5) has rescued a total of 17,241 individuals as part of its disaster response operations.
As of October 27, 2024, PRO5’s monitoring reported that heavy rains from the storm have caused widespread flooding across the region, affecting 128 barangays: 122 in Camarines Sur, five in Naga City, and one in Camarines Norte. To ensure the safety of the lives of those affected, PNP Bicol evacuated approximately 335,596 individuals to safer areas, ensuring the provision of basic needs in temporary shelters.
The storm has led to unfortunate casualties, with 41 fatalities and 20 reported injuries. Search operations are ongoing for three individuals reported missing. Additionally, the storm has caused significant transportation disruptions, with a total of 1,083 vehicles stranded in the region, including 738 light vehicles and 345 heavy vehicles. However, priority lanes are being designated for vehicles transporting essential commodities, such as fuel, food, and water, to facilitate timely delivery to affected areas.
Moreover, power outages persist, leaving 94 municipalities across the region without electricity as utility companies work to restore service.
In response to these challenging conditions, PRO5 has intensified its operations, deploying personnel to conduct continuous relief and rescue efforts. Our police are on the ground, distributing aid to displaced families and conducting traffic management to streamline transportation and reduce congestion. We have also deployed water desalination equipment which now benefited thousands of people.
PNP Bicol’s commitment to public service remains unwavering, as we work in partnership with local agencies and volunteers to provide essential services and ensure community safety amid the ongoing crisis.
(Source: PNP Kasurog Bicol)