Police mobilize 689 officers to aid residents amid southwest monsoon flooding

The Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified disaster response operations Wednesday as the southwest monsoon, known locally as the habagat, continued battering flood-prone regions with heavy rainfall. The deployment saw 689 police officers stationed throughout affected areas to coordinate rescue and relief efforts.

In a bid to assist stranded residents, the PNP mobilized patrol vehicles, buses and trucks to provide free transportation services, known as "Libreng Sakay." The service proved critical in evacuating residents from inundated communities to safer locations. Officials reported that 180 residents were successfully rescued during the operations.

The habagat typically brings seasonal rains to southwestern portions of Luzon and the Visayas, creating flooding risks in low-lying communities. The PNP statement underscored the agency's commitment to maintaining order and facilitating relief efforts during natural disasters. The deployment reflected standard protocols for monsoon season response across the archipelago.