Manila, Aug. 19 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) is reinforcing its disaster response operations as rains from the enhanced southwest monsoon or "habagat" continue to affect vulnerable areas.

PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. emphasized that police units remain deployed nationwide and more will be mobilized as needed to assist communities in need.

"Our priority is to keep our personnel and resources where they are most needed. We will continue rescue and evacuation operations, secure evacuation centers, clear critical roads, and deliver assistance to communities that remain affected," he said in a statement.

PNP teams have already rescued 180 individuals and supported 164 relief operations amid the incessant rains i...