PNP assists evacuees as Taal alert lowered to Level 3

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is assisting in the return of evacuees as the alert status for Taal Volcano was downgraded to Level 3, with PNP chief General Archie Gamboa announcing personnel and resources will be made available to help local governments.

The PNP has mobilized manpower and equipment for massive cleanup activities in ashfall-affected areas in Batangas and Cavite.

Colonel Edwin Quilates of the Batangas Provincial Police Office reported that 111,873 people have already returned to their homes, with PNP assisting 67,621 in packing belongings and transportation.

Significant numbers of residents have returned to various towns in Batangas, including Talisay, Taal, and Tanauan City.

Despite the downgrade, volcanologists warn of a continuing threat of eruption, and areas within the 7-kilometer danger zone remain under lockdown.

PNP troops continue to patrol lockdown areas to maintain peace and order, with designated team leaders overseeing supervision and patrolling.

General Gamboa commended the cooperation, patience, and civic spirit of affected residents, which contributed to zero casualties during the crisis.

The PNP previously deployed 13,000 policemen to assist in areas affected by the Taal Volcano eruption and will remain by the side of the affected population for recovery.