DAVAO ORIENTAL – Members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council have convened Saturday afternoon at the Provincial Capitol Conference Room for the Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment – Emergency Preparedness Response in light with the looming Tropical Depression which is likely to affect some parts of the province.
Although still outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, located1,585 km East of Mindanao based on the latest advisory from PAGASA, the weather disturbance is expected to intensify to become a Tropical Storm by Monday morning, November 19. Packed with maximum sustained winds of 45 km per hour and gustiness of 60 km per hour, the tropical depression has “slightly accelerated while maintaining strength. Expected to enter the PAR tomorrow afternoon, the storm will be named “SAMUEL.”
Acting on the directives of Governor Nelson Dayanghirang following the communication from the Office of Civil Defense, council members have been alerted to prepare and mobilize resources and take necessary measures to ensure public safety ahead of the brewing storm.
During the meeting, presided by Assistant PDRRM Officer Francis Jason Bendulo, council members recommended the activation of the Incident Command System for the proper communication and information among the members.
With the possibility of a storm surge, communities in coastal areas are being cautioned. Areas prone to landslides are also advised to take necessary precautionary measures.
While the Provincial Government through its PDRRMO has already prepositioned goods, the municipalities and city are also expected to have goods and food packs prepositioned.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government called on to the residents to prepare their “Listo Bags” containing the food supplies good for three days, emergency supplies, and important documents.
The Philippine Army assured that their troops are well-prepared as well as their transportation, communication equipment. Standby forces of the reservists and CAFGUs are also ready to respond.
The Philippine National Police have already advised its counterparts in the municipalities and city and have troops prepositioned in the area in case of evacuation.
The Philippine Coastguard said they have three prepositioned vessels in Davao City that are readily available upon the province’s request. The PCG also recommended that small fishing vessels be warned of the incoming storm.
The council called on all residents of the province to heighten their preparation as disaster preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. Photos by Karen Lou V. Deloso
