PNP says cops removed from 14km danger zone can be redeployed

January 23, 2020

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said cops who were removed from the 14-kilometer danger zone from Taal Volcano can be redeployed if the need arises.

Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa, in a press briefing, said the lives of their cops are their priority but they can return to the checkpoints on lockdown areas within the 14-kilometer zone if required by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council ( NDRRMC).

“If need be, if required by disaster coordinating committee we are oblige to do that,” he said.

“Of course we think of the welfare of our personnel but if public interest so require and we have to risk our lives for that, its public service, part of what we are paid for,” he added.

On Tuesday, Calabarzon police director, Police Brigadier General Vicente Danao Jr ordered cops to leave areas near the volcano based on the advisory provided by the NDRRMC and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology (Phivolcs) regarding the “deteriorating situation” of the Taal Volcano.

Alert Level Number 4 remains in effect over Taal Volcano. Ella Dionisio/DMS