The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was placed under full alert status on Monday as Typhoon ‘Tino’ (Kalmaegi) brought heavy rains across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, prompting the deployment of various response groups in anticipation of its possible effects to vulnerable communities.
According to PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, all their teams are ready with the necessary rescue equipment, land vehicles, and floating assets prepositioned for rapid deployment. She said this is to minimize potential damage to properties and protect the lives of Filipinos along the storm’s path.
“We strongly encourage our maritime stakeholders, especially our local fishermen, to monitor weather advisories from PAGASA and follow sailing guidelines for their safety,” Cayabyab said in a statement.
Earlier, the PCG through its Eastern Visayas District said it has deployed 73 disaster response teams with 525 personnel across Northern Samar, Western Samar, Eastern Samar, Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte—areas where ‘Tino’ are forecast to make its initial landfall.
Floating and land mobility assets such as high-speed response boats, rubber boats, aluminum boats, rescue trucks, service vehicles, and a PCG ambulance are also on standby for rapid response to any incident.
From 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on November 3, the PCG reported that 83 ports nationwide have been affected by the effects of Typhoon ‘Tino.’ A total of 3,103 passengers, drivers, and cargo helpers, 1,203 rolling cargoes, and 61 vessels remain stranded in various ports.
Meanwhile, 530 vessels and 389 motor bancas have taken shelter as a precautionary measure against the effects of the storm.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) also issued a heightened alert status across all its area centers and airports in preparation for the arrival of Typhoon Tino.
The alert signifies that the CAAP is taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and operational readiness amidst the severe weather conditions associated with the typhoon.
CAAP Director General Raul Del Rosario has instructed all Area Center Managers and Airport Managers in regions that may be impacted to guarantee the preparedness of airport facilities, equipment, and personnel.
This initiative is in compliance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez to ensure the safety and preparedness of all transportation sectors.
All airports under CAAP jurisdiction have been instructed to secure communication and navigational equipment, ensure the readiness of emergency response teams, and coordinate with airlines and local authorities for possible flight disruptions or cancellations.
Airports have also been directed to implement passenger assistance measures, including the provision of temporary accommodation, food, and essential supplies for stranded passengers, as well as the activation of Malasakit Help Desks to ensure their comfort and immediate assistance.
“CAAP is closely monitoring Typhoon Tino’s movement and potential impact on aviation operations. We are ensuring that all necessary precautions are in place to safeguard lives and maintain operational readiness across all airports,” said Del Rosario.
CAAP assures the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant coordination with airline operators and airport authorities to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of the traveling public.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Army said its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) teams are also ready for deployment as Typhoon “Tino” moved closer towards Eastern Visayas.
“The Army is now coordinating with national government agencies, local government units, local disaster risk reduction and management offices and other responders for swift and orchestrated HADR efforts in communities that lay on the typhoon’s path.” Army Spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said.
Families are also encouraged to heed local authorities’ safety recommendations and keep abreast of weather forecasts.
