The Philippine National Police (PNP) said 366 police officers have been deployed to assist with the evacuations amid Mt. Kanlaon’s latest unrest.

PNP spokesperson, Central Luzon Police chief Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, said 90 of these officers are watching over evacuation hubs set up in La Castellana town, La Carlota City, Bago City, and Canlaon City, providing shelter to 9,275 evacuees.

The rest are augmenting the pre-emptive evacuation efforts of local government units (LGUs) and disaster response bodies in the affected areas.

“Per the coordination of the PNP with the LGUs and in response to the recommendations of experts, as much as possible, nobody will be allowed to enter the permanent danger zone to prevent any untoward incidents,” Fajardo told reporters in Camp Crame.

She said the police officers are also keeping a close watch on areas left by affected residents to prevent looting.

Authorities are also conducting site inspections and strengthening coordination efforts to ensure evacuees receive support, including access to water and other essential resources, she added.

Fajardo said the PNP remains in close contact with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and other agencies to provide updates and ensure the swift delivery of assistance. (PNA)