The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, led by Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, has prepositioned heavy equipment for emergency response and stockpiled food packs for relief operation in preparation for the damaging effects of Tropical Storm “Kristine,” internationally known as “Trami.”
DOST-PAGASA raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 in the province with a yellow rainfall warning already in effect. Tropical Storm “Kristine” is currently battering the Visayas Island and is expected to bring torrential rains to Ilocos Norte on October 24.
To ensure the safety of the Ilokano community, Governor Marcos Manotoc declared the suspension of government work and classes at all levels in both public and private schools across the province today, October 23.
“Last night, I asked all Mayors and Resiliency Officers to activate our resiliency teams, clear all waterways, mobilize and check necessary resources, and prepare relief goods and supplies,” he said in a statement.
He also urged residents to assist in clearing waterways, emphasizing the importance of preventing potential flooding. Also, farmers in the province harvested their crops early in anticipation of the heavy rainfall brought by Kristine.
Meanwhile, Ms. Rochelle Gajes, Acting Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer, confirmed that almost of 5,300 family food packs (FFPs) have been prepositioned at seven (7) satellite storage facilities across the province. Additionally, 3,500 FFPs are ready for dispatch from the warehouse of the Provincial Government in San Nicolas town, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has prepared 15,000 more FFPs to augment the stockpile.
Further bolstering disaster preparedness, additional relief aid, specifically including 800 sacks of rice at five (5) kilos each, 50 boxes of instant noodles, and 10 boxes of toothpaste, were delivered to the Provincial Capitol on October 22, donated by the Ilocos Norte Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc.
Earlier this month, Super Typhoon Julian ravaged the province, causing over P1 billion in damages and affecting 195,000 Ilokanos. In response, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) has been conducting relief operations, including emergency livelihood cash payouts for residents affected by Julian.
As Tropical Storm Kristine approaches, Ilocos Norte remains on high alert, with PGIN mobilizing relief supplies and emergency teams through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, urging everyone to stay vigilant. (Mariell J. Pahinag)
(Source: Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte – Communications & Media Office)