President Marcos told Filipinos to keep safe and exercise vigilance as tropical storm ‘Aghon’ continues to bring rains across parts of Luzon and Visayas, including Metro Manila.
“As Tropical Storm #AghonPH continues to move across our country, I urge everyone in the affected areas to stay vigilant and prioritize your safety,” Mr. Marcos posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday afternoon.
The President said he has directed all relevant government agencies to “work tirelessly in monitoring the situation and providing necessary assistance.”
He noted that food and non-food items, health services and evacuation centers are all being mobilized to support all affected communities.
“Let us all look out for one another, especially the most vulnerable members of our communities. Together, we will get through this storm. Stay safe, and may God bless us all,” President Marcos stated.
In a separate statement, the Philippine Army through its 31st Infantry Battalion and 9th Infantry Division said it is prepared to conduct humanitarian and disaster response missions amid the onslaught of storm ‘Aghon.’
The quick response teams will be under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Joy Villanueva. They have already conducted inspections of rescue equipment, which are ready to be mobilized anytime soon.
The army continues to monitor weather conditions and has been coordinating with local government authorities in evaluating its impact to determine the most effective courses of actions moving forward.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recently responded to a distress call at sea when a motorized banca capsized in the vicinity waters off Penafrañcia, Claveria in Masbate last Friday.
The vessel identified as MBCA Oceanus Uno sailed amid adverse weather conditions and was hit by strong waves.
PCG and members of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) in Aroroy town immediately boarded two rescue boats to provide assistance.
The search and rescue teams were able to save 48 individuals, including all passengers and vessel crew. PCG said they were all in good condition and have been turned over to the Rural Health Unit of Aroroy, Masbate for medical attention.
PAGASA has advised mariners of motor bancas and similarly-sized vessels to take precautionary measures while venturing out to sea and, if possible, avoid navigating in these conditions, especially if inexperienced or operating ill-equipped vessels.
‘Aghon’ is forecast to gradually accelerate northeastward while intensifying. It is projected to reach typhoon category by Tuesday afternoon or evening and may exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Wednesday, according to the state weather bureau.