LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) -- The police force in Bicol is on alert for the heavy rains and possible floods brought by Tropical Storm "Paeng" in the region.

The Police Regional Office here (PRO-5) said in a statement Thursday that at least 45 Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) members from the regional headquarters and 32 Quick Response Team (QRT) members from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion are put on stand by in case of emergency.

"They shall be expected to conduct evacuation of residents living in low lying and flood prone areas. Coordination with local government units (LGUs) was also undertaken for the actions to be made to avoid risks and casualty," it said.

The PRO-5 said all Police Provincial Offices and City Police Offices were directed to monitor weather situation in respective areas and to create disaster response teams.

In a separate statement, PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Rudolph Dimas said their assets are ready to be used if they are needed as 'Paeng' has slightly intensified.

"The public is reminded to be calm and prepared in case the situation worsens. Moreover, the doors of Philippine National Police Bicol remain open and all set to extend all the necessary help needed by the community," Dimas said.

In a bulletin released at 11 a.m. today, Friday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said ‘Paeng’ had maximum sustained winds of 75 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 90 kph while  moving Westward at 15 kph.

It was tracked 410 km East of Borongan City, Eastern Samar.  Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been hoisted over all provinces in Bicol region--Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Masbate, including Ticao and Burias Islands.  (DDC - PIA Region 5)