The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) has been placed on red alert status in anticipation of the potential impact of Typhoon Uwan across Central and Northern Luzon.
According to Maj. Al Anthony Puebla, Chief of NOLCOM’s Public Information Office, 350 search, rescue, and retrieval teams—comprising approximately 3,500 personnel—have been deployed to strategic locations throughout Regions 1, 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region.
These teams include units from Joint Task Force Kaugnay (Region 3), Joint Task Force Tala (Region 1), Northern Luzon Naval Command, and Tactical Operations Group in Northern Luzon.
NOLCOM has also readied its land, sea, and air assets, which are now on standby for rapid deployment in case of emergency operations.
Maj. Puebla emphasized that coordination with local government units (LGUs) and Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (LDRRMOs) is ongoing to ensure swift response and aid delivery.
All deployed personnel have undergone Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) training, ensuring operational readiness in flood-prone and coastal areas.
Typhoon Uwan, which continues to intensify, is expected to make landfall over Aurora province late Sunday or early Monday, bringing torrential rains, destructive winds, and storm surges.
PAGASA has raised Signal No. 4 in Catanduanes and parts of Bicol, with Signal No. 3 and 2 affecting large portions of Luzon, including areas under NOLCOM’s jurisdiction.
Maj. Puebla reminded the public to remain alert, follow evacuation advisories, and cooperate with authorities to avoid casualties and ensure community safety.