Public urged to prepare for new typhoon

DAVAO CITY — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has urged the public to take early precautions and remain vigilant as a new weather disturbance is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) within the next 24 hours.

“Let us engage in proactive planning and stay informed with relevant updates to ensure we are adequately prepared,” Teodoro stated in a news release on Sunday.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration among all concerned agencies to establish a comprehensive action plan in light of the anticipated storm.

Predictive analyses from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) indicate that over a million individuals could be affected by the impending tropical cyclone.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), a low-pressure area off Virac, Catanduanes, is expected to develop into a tropical depression shortly. Once it enters the country, it will be named Kristine, marking the 11th tropical cyclone this year.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau has reported that 5,688 villages are at risk of landslides and flooding in regions projected to be impacted by Kristine, which is anticipated to make landfall on the eastern coast of Cagayan by Thursday and may traverse northern Luzon. The system could reach typhoon intensity before landfall.

The rainbands associated with the potential tropical cyclone may bring moderate to heavy rainfall to the Bicol Region, Samar provinces, and other areas starting Tuesday.

Currently, all monitored dams remain under non-flood status, but authorities advise communities to stay alert and prepared for changing conditions.