Provincial leaders in the Bicol region have released advisories, including the suspension of classes, as part of precautionary measures ahead of the expected impact of Severe Tropical Storm “Opong.”
In Albay, Governor Noel Rosal suspended classes in all levels, both private and public schools, shifting to an alternative learning mode on Wednesday, and has continued the suspension on Thursday.
The decision on the suspension of work for private firms is left to the discretion of their management.
Banks are encouraged to ensure that ATMs are operational and adequately stocked with cash.
Rosal also prohibited all river crossings by foot and vehicle, as well as river fishing and swimming.
Mass gatherings, outdoor activities, educational tours, and related events, especially those outside the province, have been suspended, and any previously issued permits are revoked.
Rosal also urged farmers to harvest mature crops and marketable products early and to secure their livestock with an adequate supply of feeds and fresh grass or silage.
Fishing boats and gear should be evacuated to safer locations to prevent damage.
In Sorsogon, Governor Edwin Hamor issued an executive order suspending classes in all levels on Thursday.
The decision follows the recommendation from the Sorsogon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to prioritize public safety.
Camarines Sur Governor Luis Raymund Villafuerte directed local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils to implement pre-emptive evacuations in barangays highly susceptible to flooding and landslides.
The order mandates that evacuation should be completed by noon on Sept. 25, with coordination required with local barangay committees to identify vulnerable communities and organize evacuation to designated centers.
Masbate Governor Richard Kho ordered all local government units to activate their local disaster response units.
Meanwhile, Legazpi City Mayor Hisham Ismail said the city aims for zero casualties and is working to ensure the readiness of response teams.
“The police would assist in persuading barangay captains or officials to convince residents to evacuate. If necessary, the police will facilitate enforced evacuations. The timing of a potential curfew will depend on the typhoon’s arrival to avoid premature or delayed action,” he said in an interview.
Ismail added that previous evacuations resulted in about 35,000 individuals seeking refuge in evacuation centers.
He said they are preparing, especially in areas where homes are constructed from light materials, which are more prone to accidents and can endanger neighboring properties.
The Legazpi local government unit has over 40,000 capsules of medicine for leptospirosis available for residents potentially exposed to floodwaters, especially those with open wounds.
“The medicine can be collected from the City Health Office, but he suggested that barangay officials take responsibility for its distribution, with health workers providing guidance on proper usage to properly use the medicine,” he said.
