Military, police units alerted for 'Agaton' relief efforts

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 3): Military, police units alerted for 'Agaton' relief efforts

Military and police units were alerted to help in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions in wake of the onslaught of tropical depression 'Agaton'.

This was emphasized by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo in a message late Tuesday.

"In view of the Tropical Depression 'Agaton', all units of the AFP in the direct path of the weather system are tasked to assist LGUs (local government units) and other relevant govt agencies on HADR. All other units in Mindanao and Visayas not on the direct path are also tasked to make their Disaster Response Teams (DRTs) available if need arises," he added.

The same was reiterated by Philippine National Police Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa.

"I have alerted all RDs (Regional Directors) in PROs (Police Regional Offices) along the path of Tropical Depression 'Agaton' to activate their respective disaster contingency plans and mobilize available units and personnel for disaster response operations in coordination with LGUs and local DRRMC in their areas," he stressed.

Based on PAGASA's 5 a.m. weather bulletin, 'Agaton' was estimated to be 175 kilometers west northwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

It has a maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of 65 kph.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020319