The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) convened a hybrid emergency meeting earlier today to address ongoing preparedness and response operations for the combined impacts of Typhoon “Nando,” Tropical Cyclone “Mirasol,” and the Southwest Monsoon.
As of today, a total of 111 families, or around 380 individuals, have been safely evacuated from the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon due to the threats posed by Typhoon “Nando” and the Southwest Monsoon.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that Typhoon “Nando” is expected to further intensify the Southwest Monsoon as it nears the landmass. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 will be raised over Northern Luzon and the eastern portion of Central Luzon later this afternoon. The highest wind signal that may be hoisted during the typhoon’s passage is Signal No. 5.
Civil Defense Administrator, Undersecretary Harold Cabreros, underscored the importance of proactive preparedness and response efforts to ensure public safety and the readiness of government agencies and uniformed services.
“Typhoon ‘Nando’ has intensified into a typhoon–this is the second highest category, and we are prioritizing the safety of citizens while ensuring that essential supplies are distributed where they are most needed. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (NDRRMOC) has raised its status to Red Alert for heightened monitoring and coordination. We are on full alert, and we urge the public to stay vigilant as well.” Usec. Cabreros said.
OCD Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV also called on the public to remain vigilant, urging regional counterparts and local government units to intensify public information efforts on weather updates and preparedness actions for households, communities, and various sectors.
“We urge every household, community, and sector to take necessary measures. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued advisories on preemptive evacuations and a no-sailing policy, while the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) has issued warnings to the mining industry. The government is here to assist, but it is everyone’s responsibility to act for our own safety,” Asec. Alejandro emphasized.
Authorities and science agencies have reiterated that the weather conditions remain unstable. The public is strongly advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and postpone gatherings or outdoor activities until the weather fully improves.