The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been on "full alert" as part of nationwide preparations for the approaching Typhoon Uwan (international name: Fung-Wong), following the directive of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to conduct preemptive and mandatory evacuations in areas expected to be affected by the storm.
According to PNP Acting Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the police are now in close coordination with local government units (LGUs) and disaster management agencies to ensure the safety and security of residents, particularly those in high-risk and vulnerable communities, RH Edniel Parrosa reported.
Nartatez has ordered all PNP units, especially those in Northern and Central Luzon, to be placed under the highest state of alert.
He said that the PNP is ready to assist in carrying out preemptive and mandatory evacuations as directed by the DILG.
The PNP also urged the public to take government warnings seriously and to evacuate early when advised, instead of waiting for conditions to worsen.
Meanwhile, in a press conference held at Camp Aguinaldo, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) announced that the agencies have until noon on Sunday to evacuate residents in vulnerable areas. Officials estimate that around 5.7 million people will need to be moved to safety before the typhoon makes landfall.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that Typhoon Uwan is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Friday evening or early Saturday morning, November 8, and may intensify into a super typhoon as it nears the country.
Authorities continue to remind the public to monitor weather updates, prepare emergency supplies, and possible floods and landslides in several areas. They also advised following local evacuation orders to ensure safety during the oncoming typhoon.
