BALER: The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) convened Tuesday to prepare for Typhoon Leon and the observance of “Undas” or All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days. Governor Reynante Tolentino announced that the provincial government will conduct round-the-clock monitoring for updates on Leon. The province’s Emergency Operation Center will be activated from October 30 until November 3.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Tolentino emphasized his commitment to the council meeting with a pledge to continue offering “Serbisyong Bukas Palad” (open palm services) for the benefit of Aurora’s residents. He urged heightened alerts and preparedness for any emergencies, urging support for the Provincial Government of Aurora’s (PGA) plans and programs without politicization. The meeting, held at the capitol, brought together local DRRM council heads who shared their deployment and typhoon contingency plans.
Maj. Emil Sison, representing Aurora Police Provincial Office Director Col. R
oginald Francisco, stated that 547 officers, troops from the 91st Infantry Battalion, and other force multipliers will be deployed throughout the province. PDRRM Office Chief Elson Egargue confirmed the approval of the release of the quick response fund amounting to PHP27.7 million, along with a local DRRM fund totaling PHP90.5 million. These funds are earmarked for disaster preparedness, response, and the prepositioning of food and non-food items.