Cops deployed in Taal danger zone ordered to leave within 48 hours

Cops deployed within the 14-kilometer danger zone around Taal Volcano were given 48 hours to leave the area, according to Philippine National Police spokesman Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac on Wednesday.

"Nagbigay po ng 48 hours na babala ang PNP sa Region IV-A... bukas sisimulan na ng PNP ang pagwithdraw from the 14-kilometer permanent danger zone at ilalabas na natin ang mga pulis beyond the circumferential line," Banac said.

Banac said the directive was based on the advisory given by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. He said more or less 500 policemen are in the area.

"Ang desisyon ng pagpull-out ng mga tao natin ay base na rin sa advisory ng NDRRMC at ng ating awtoridad na ang situation within the permanent danger zone ay patuloy na nagkakaroon ng deterioration..." Banac said.

The PNP official also urged remaining residents in the area to vacate it for their own safety. Banac said there are still residents who ignore the risks and try to go home to get their belongings.

"Tayo po muli ay nananawagan sa mga evacuees na sumunod po sa mga awtoridad. Huwag na po talaga bumalik doon sa permanent danger zone," he said.

"To anyone who may be found left behind, the PNP will have no recourse but to conduct forced evacuation," Banac added.

Banac said other policemen continue to assist in the relief efforts for the evacuees, noting that more or less 13,000 cops are deployed in CALABARZON. 

Alert Level 4 is still raised over Taal Volcano, meaning hazardous eruption is still imminent. — RSJ, GMA News