Gamboa directs police commanders to help in response ops for Typhoon ‘Ambo’

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa on Thursday ordered police commanders to help in response operations in affected areas of Typhoon “Ambo” (international name: Vongfong).

“The Philippine National Police under the Command of Chief PNP, Police General Archie Francisco F. Gamboa remains on Full Alert as he directed all unit commanders thru the PNP Director of Operations Police Major General Emmanuel Luis D Licup, to closely work with respective Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils to ensure public safety in affected areas of Typhoon Ambo amid COVID-19 Pandemic,” PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac said in a statement.

Banac said police units will continue to enforce quarantine protocols in affected areas and protect civilians from the weather disturbance.

“Amid challenges faced by the PNP, it will remain resolute and ready for disaster preparedness and response operations to protect lives and properties from Typhoon Ambo as it continues to defend our citizens from COVID-19,” he said.

Latest weather report from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said storm surges may hit Northern Samar, Eastern Samar (east coast), Samar (west coast), Sorsogon, Albay, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Quezon and Aurora.

Pagasa also said Typhoon Ambo is expected to make landfall over Northern Samar or the northern portion of Eastern Samar between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Thursday before heading to Sorsogon by evening.

The typhoon will also bring heavy to intense torrential rains over Samar provinces, Masbate, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes.