AFP alerts disaster response teams amid effects of storm ‘Ofel’

From the Daily Tribune (Oct 25): AFP alerts disaster response teams amid effects of storm ‘Ofel’

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday alerted its disaster response teams, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, in preparation for the possible effects of tropical storm “Ofel” which is forecasted top bring moderate to intense rains. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) already reported that a total of 4,232 passengers have been stranded in various ports in the country due to tropical storm “Ofel.” The AFP-Public Affairs Office (PAO), in a statement said, that AFP-Disaster Response Task Units (DRTUs) nationwide, especially in the Visayas and Mindanao, have been alerted for rapid response in affected areas to mitigate the effects of the coming weather disturbance. “These DRTUs will closely coordinate with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils in their respective localities for guidance and disposition,” the AFP-PAO said. “Whenever called upon and directed by DRRMCs concerned, the AFP-DRTUs will be ready to conduct emergency response and assist in the preemptive evacuation operations in disaster-prone areas,” it added. Aside from the DRTUs, the military also placed its regular troops and reservists on stand-by for possible disaster response operations.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/6053-afp-alerts-disaster-response-teams-amid-effects-of-storm-‘ofel’