MANILA, Philippines — The country’s police force is on full alert status on Monday following the eruption of Taal Volcano.
All personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are directed to be ready for deployment to assist in disaster and relief operations.
“PNP officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa orders full alert status for all units and offices at National Headquarters, National Support Units, PRO3, PRO4a, and NCRPO and directs all personnel to be ready for deployment to assist in disaster and relief operations,” the PNP said in a statement.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) was also ordered to dispatch six trucks to help in the evacuation in Talisay, Batangas.
They are also directed to augment security at Clark Airport after the diversion of flights from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia), the PNP said.
Taal Volcano belched steam, ash and small rocks on Sunday, prompting the government to order the evacuation of residents in nearby villages and ask tourists to leave the Tagaytay, Batangas and Cavite areas as a precaution for an imminent eruption.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised the danger level to 4 late on Sunday, meaning a hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours or days.