EVACUATIONS ORDERED AS PEPITO THREATENS SEVERAL PROVINCES

Super Typhoon "Pepito" is getting near the landmass of the Philippines, residents and local authorities are on high alert for the potential impact of Pepito’s onslaught (Photo courtesy of Facebook/Joey Sarte Salceda)

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on local government units (LGUs) in 23 provinces and Metro Manila to enforce immediate preemptive evacuations as Super Typhoon "Pepito" (international name: Man-yi) looms potentially bringing life-threatening storm surges of up to 7 meters.

"This is no joke. Evacuate now," DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla warned, stressing the need for the immediate relocation of communities within 10 meters of the shoreline. Urging local leaders to act decisively to safeguard residents in low-lying and coastal areas.

In Quezon Province, local disaster risk reduction and management offices were ordered to conduct pre-emptive and forced evacuation especially in areas at-risk for flooding, landslides, and storm surges.

Super Typhoon Pepito was anticipated to hit the Bicol Region, residents have evacuated to a mall in Polangui town in Albay province for safety. 

The provincial government of Batangas is conducting preemptive and forced evacuation in areas with a high chance of experiencing severe danger due to the potential effects of Super Typhoon Pepito.

Cancellations of flights, land and sea trips were also announced in anticipation of Super Typhoon Pepito’s onslaught. Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and PAL Express has cancelled the flights going to Naga, Masbate, Legazpi, Cebu, Cebu, Calbayog, Iloilo, and Davao. 

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) also announced the cancellation of several sea trips going to Batangas, Caticlan, Romblon, Sibuyan, Calapan, Puerto Galera, all trips from Bicol, All trips from and to northeastern portion of Eastern Samar, All trips from and to areas under the jurisdiction of PCG Northern Samar, and All Trips to and from Biliran.

The public is advised to remain vigilant as Pepito is expected to unleash heavy rainfall and elevate dam water levels, posing additional risks to downstream communities. Pagasa forecasts indicate a high risk of severe storm surges and flooding across Luzon and Visayas.

Source: Philippine Star 

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