“A community prepared today is a community saved tomorrow.” – Unknown
The Philippines, undoubtedly, is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world due to its geographical location and environmental conditions. Being situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, the country is highly susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Additionally, it lies in the typhoon belt causing it to experience an average of 20 typhoons per year – leaving significant damages to vulnerable communities.
Between late October and mid-November 2024, the country was hit by six consecutive tropical cyclones, three of which were Super Typhoons Pepito, Kristine, and Leon which had caused widespread destruction and had displaced hundreds of thousands of residents. During these unwanted natural threats, the Philippine National Police (PNP) had played a crucial role, demonstrating its commitment to public safety and security.
PNP, under the directives of PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, had remained at the forefront of disaster response, actively conducting search and rescue operations, providing relief assistance, and ensuring public safety in affected regions. PGen. Marbil had mobilized personnel to assist in disaster response operations, with additional number of personnel on standby for reinforcements enforcing preemptive evacuations, overseeing disaster response operations, and providing critical assistance in evacuation centers.
Our country’s vulnerability to disasters, particularly typhoons, had led the Philippine National Police to facilitate a proactive rather than reactive approach to disaster preparation. On February 3, 2025, Chief PNP, Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil had officially launched the “PNP Primer in Response to Natural Disaster” in a ceremonial event held at the Star Lounge in Camp BGen Rafael T Crame. The initiated book launching underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters.
As a member agency under the Office of the Civil Defense, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) as the principal policy-making and coordinating body, PNP shall conduct disaster risk reduction and management activities as enacted into law under Republic Act 10121 on May 27, 2010 otherwise known as Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. Said PNP Primer serves as a comprehensive and practical guide for law enforcement personnel, equipping them with the necessary protocols and strategies to effectively respond to calamities. It highlights the PNP’s vital roles in responding to disasters: to provide for the safety and security of the community, and to be first responders during times of crisis.
In his keynote address, the PNP Chief had emphasized the significance of this initiative in strengthening disaster response capabilities across the country, while maintaining order, and ensuring a swift recovery after disasters. He had urged all PNP personnel to uphold their sworn duty with readiness, dedication, and compassion as they assist communities in these challenging times.
“As we launch this primer, let us remember the lives we are entrusted to protect and the communities we are called to serve. The Philippine National Police will always be ready—to respond, to assist, and to lead in every disaster, ensuring a safer and more resilient Philippines,” PGen Marbil said.
With the Primer and concerted efforts of the organization to continuously provide support to both the general populace and its personnel, the Philippines will be brave and confident enough to face calamities and survive. Afterall, the Filipinos’ innate resilience and PNP’s dedication to public service amidst natural disasters are catalysts to achieving peace and progress in the Bagong Pilipinas! ###
