President Marcos on Wednesday placed government agencies on “high alert” status in anticipation of Typhoon Marce’s onslaught, even as he instructed them to prepare for future storms by fortifying state infrastructure projects with robust materials.
Through social media posts, the chief executive told agencies to ensure resilient communication systems to ensure that critical information can quickly be transmitted to communities that may be affected by the latest weather disturbance.
“Let us start by readying an efficient communication system that can quickly deliver advice and information to citizens,” he said in Filipino
Mr. Marcos directed all government agencies with rescue capabilities to prepare their equipment ahead of a scenario in which they must mobilize.
“Prepare your rescue equipment… all agencies. Also, government agencies that can contribute equipment, especially vehicles [should do so],” he said.
The President also ordered concerned agencies to monitor the rising levels of dams and follow the existing protocols for releasing water once water levels reach maximum levels.
Meanwhile, Mr. Marcos instructed key government agencies to prioritize high-quality, durable materials for infrastructure projects, emphasizing the need for climate resilience in the wake of increasingly severe weather conditions.
During his visit to Legazpi, he addressed officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other relevant agencies, urging them to ensure materials meet strict quality standards to withstand typhoons and other extreme weather events.
“We know that storms are getting stronger and their damage more severe. That’s why we’re implementing modern designs for our roads and bridges,” he said.
The President’s call for resilient infrastructure aligns with a broader push to protect communities vulnerable to climate-related hazards, particularly in areas like the Bicol Region, which frequently faces typhoons.
In addition to his infrastructure directive, Mr. Marcos announced plans to begin construction of the Bicol River Basin Development Project (BRBDP) in early 2025, an initiative expected to mitigate the region’s long-standing flood issues.
“By early 2025, we’ll see work starting on the ground. This project aims to control flooding in the Bicol River Basin, allowing us to respond more effectively when waters rise,” he explained.
The BRBDP is expected to reduce flooding significantly and speed up drainage, benefiting thousands of residents who face seasonal inundations.
As this developed, “Marce” was observed moving slowly over the waters east of Northern Cagayan on Wednesday afternoon.
Tropical cyclone wind signal no. 3 was raised northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan (Santa Ana, Gonzaga).
Signal no. 2 was hoisted over Batanes, the rest of Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, the northern portion of Isabela, Apayao, the northern portion of Kalinga, the northern portion of Abra, Ilocos Norte, and the northern portion of Ilocos Sur.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration tracked the cyclone moving westward slowly with maximum sustained winds of 150 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 185 km/h.
“Marce” may exit the Philippine area of responsibility on Friday evening, the weather bureau said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Government on high alert amid threat of Typhoon ‘Marce’—PBBM.”
