Typhoon Kristine brought significant devastation to the southern part of Luzon on October 23, 2024, particularly in the Bicol region. However, the Police Regional Office 5, under the leadership of PBGen Andre P. Dizon, Regional Director, had acted effectively before, during, and after the typhoon’s impact. Their efforts had highlighted a commitment not only to public safety but also to the welfare of their own personnel. The Kasurog Cops were well-prepared for Typhoon Kristine.
On October 21, as Tropical Storm Kristine entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), PRO 5 and its partner agencies closely monitored its path, pre-positioning essential supplies and establishing clear communication channels for a rapid and coordinated response.
PRO5’s rapid response to Typhoon Kristine’s impact on Bicol on October 23 had saved numerous lives. The 501st Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5 (RMFB5) and the Revitalized-Pulis sa Barangay (R-PSB) Teams had bravely rescued 37 families in Sagñay, Camarines Sur, bringing them to safety. In Milaor, Camarines Sur, personnel from the Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office had rescued stranded travelers affected by the severe floodings. These rescues had demonstrated PRO5’s proactive commitment to protecting lives, even in the face of extreme danger.
This dedication to saving lives was further amplified by the arrival of 222 augmentation personnel from Police Regional Office 8 (PRO8) on October 25. This impressive collaboration had also included personnel from PNP, BFP, Philippine Army, and Philippine Coast Guard, all equipped with specialized rescue gear. This combined force significantly boosted rescue efforts, ensuring a more effective and widespread response to the crisis in Bicol under the state of calamity. The partnership between agencies highlights the power of collaboration in disaster operations.
Following Typhoon Kristine, PRO5’s commitment to relief and recovery had shone through. Essential supplies were swiftly distributed to 14 hard-hit Municipal Police Stations (11 in Camarines Sur and three in Albay Provinces), ensuring the well-being of the personnel affected by the typhoon. This support underscores PRO5’s dedication to its personnel’s welfare.
Beyond supporting its own personnel, PRO5 had proactively addressed the critical shortage of clean drinking water. The Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5 (RMFB5) had deployed its water desalination equipment on October 25, providing a lifeline to 220 families in Oas and Polangui with 5,800 liters of clean and filtered water. This vital assistance, continuing even after the initial emergency, showcases PRO5’s sustained commitment to providing essential resources and supporting affected communities on their long road to recovery.
On October 26, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. visited Bula in Camarines Sur, to personally assess the damage and oversee the distribution of relief goods. This immediate response, coupled with a pledge for long-term rehabilitation and infrastructure improvements, demonstrates the government’s commitment to aiding affected communities and building greater resilience against future disasters.
PRO5’s response to Typhoon Kristine serves as a model for effective disaster response. Their actions highlight the importance of preparedness, swift action during emergencies, and sustained support during recovery. The collaboration with other agencies and the prioritization of personnel welfare underscore a comprehensive and compassionate approach to disaster management. The innovative use of the water desalination equipment demonstrates a commitment to finding practical solutions to address critical needs. The Kasurog Cops’ efforts exemplify a dedication to serving and protecting the communities they serve, even in the face of extreme adversity.
