The Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol) on Wednesday conducted its annual inspection of disaster response equipment to ensure readiness for any emergencies in the region.
In an interview after the inspection, PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon underscored the significance of the event, particularly as the second quarter of the year approaches, a time typically associated with the start of the rainy season and potential disasters.
“Here in Bicol, we are one of the regions most frequently affected by natural calamities. This initiative aims to inspect and assess the readiness of our rescue and disaster response equipment,” he said.
During the inspection, the PNP Bicol displayed its full range of search and rescue (SAR) assets and equipment, including SAR vehicles, desalination machines, man trucks, ambulances, rubber boats, life-saving tools, and other essential gear.
Dizon said they have made improvements in their equipment, including floating devices with bulletproof features to address potential threats.
“Our outboard motors have also been upgraded, and the rubber boats are now more durable. Previously, some would get punctured by sharp objects like steel bars, but now they feature fiberglass hulls,” he said.
Along with continued collaboration with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on disaster preparedness, Dizon said a Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) training held last April 9 to 11 was another example of their ongoing efforts to improve their disaster response preparedness.
“We are committed to training as many personnel as possible to strengthen our response capacity,” he said.
Dizon said more than 100 personnel were trained in the WASAR.
“We are conducting continuous training. This is just the beginning of our preparedness efforts, and it will continue because prevention is always better than cure,” he said.
Dizon added the activity was held simultaneously across the provinces, where local units showcased their equipment and were instructed to coordinate with their respective Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Offices to tally resources and establish cohesive partnerships.
“This allows us to identify issues early on. During the inspection, we can spot problems like non-working chainsaws or issues with desalination machines. This way, we can address and correct them promptly,” Dizon said.
He also added that their preparations extend beyond equipment and focus on cultivating the right mindset among personnel.
“If they lack the will to strive, the commitment to perform their duties, or the willingness to sacrifice for the safety of others, then equipment alone will not be sufficient,” Dizon added.
The PNP Bicol reiterated its call for public vigilance and cooperation in disaster preparedness efforts, stressing that community resilience begins with collective awareness and action. (PNA)
