Police extend aid to Bicolanos affected by ‘Kristine’

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO 5) has provided relief assistance to 5,433 individuals affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami) from different provinces in the region.

In a statement on Wednesday, PRO-5 director, Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, said the beneficiaries from the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Sorsogon received essential food items including rice, canned goods, noodles, sugar, coffee, eggs, and bottled water during several distribution activities starting Oct. 24 to date.

“The concerted effort underscores the Philippine National Police’s (PNP’s) commitment to aiding communities in times of need and strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders to maximize assistance,” he said.

Dizon said the goods were from generous donations from multiple regional offices, including PRO4B (Mimaropa), PRO9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), PRO10 (Northern Mindanao), PRO12 (North Cotabato), and PRO7 (Central Visayas).

“Representatives from these PROs personally traveled to Bicol to hand over the relief supplies, exemplifying solidarity and commitment in response to the recent disaster,” he added.

Dizon said PRO5 remains active on the ground, coordinating with local barangays to assess ongoing needs and mobilizing additional relief where necessary.

“The regional office is continuously evaluating affected areas and responding swiftly to emerging requirements, demonstrating a commitment to supporting Bicolanos until the situation stabilizes,” he added.

PRO5 also extended relief assistance to 3,598 PRO5 members affected by the storm through aid from the PNP national headquarters and the PRO5 food bank, ensuring that they and their families are being helped while they continue to serve affected communities. (PNA)

ASSISTANCE. Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) director, Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, (center) hands over relief goods to a woman in this undated photo. The PRO-5 already provided food aid to over 5,000 “Kristine”-affected families in the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Sorsogon. (Photo courtesy of PRO-5)