The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has been on “red alert” since Monday afternoon as part of its readiness measures for Tropical Storm Kristine, which is expected to affect a significant portion of the country in the coming days.
Office of Civil Defense-NDRRMC spokesperson Director Edgar Posadas, during an online briefing Tuesday, said they are on standby to address the needs of their 17 regional offices. The “red alert” status requires all agency personnel to remain on duty to address potential emergencies.
Posadas added that their communication teams, in coordination with the Philippine Information Agency represented by Deputy Director General Assistant Secretary Ares Gutierrez, are working to inform the public in the regions that may be impacted by the storm.
“We cannot procrastinate for a typhoon as strong as Kristine,” Posadas stressed.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) also activated its disaster response teams and placed all available air and ground assets on standby.
PAF Spokesperson Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo stated that this is in anticipation of Kristine’s possible impact, showcasing the service’s preparedness for immediate humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.
“As part of its proactive measures, search and rescue units, including specialized water search and rescue teams, are on high alert,” Castillo added, noting that air force assets are ready to deployed for such operations across the country.
“These resources are crucial for executing search and rescue missions, delivering essential supplies, and providing medical assistance to affected communities.”
Castillo also emphasized the PAF’s commitment to helping Filipinos during crises, stating that the Air Force remains vigilant as the storm’s path and strength evolve.
Similarly, the Philippine Army mobilized its disaster response units and assets to assist communities in Luzon expected to be affected by Kristine.
