LAOAG: Authorities in the Ilocos Region have initiated pre-emptive evacuations for residents in areas prone to floods and landslides as a precautionary measure against Tropical Storm Kristine. The early evacuation efforts aim to minimize the storm’s impact on vulnerable communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region I, led by acting regional director Carmelita Laverinto, announced that 227 families, comprising 621 individuals, from Bangar, La Union, have been relocated to Bangar Central School and a municipal gymnasium. Laverinto emphasized the importance of early evacuation, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and children.
Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils are conducting assessments in susceptible areas to implement necessary pre-emptive strategies. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau has identified 1,929 villages in the region at risk of landslides and flooding, with the highest nu
mbers in Pangasinan and La Union.
As Tropical Storm Kristine approaches, predicted to make landfall over Isabela or northern Aurora, government offices engaged in health services and disaster response remain on high alert. The Department of Social Welfare and Development has prepared significant aid resources, including 93,836 family food packs and 17,287 non-food items.
The Department of Public Works and Highways reports that while most national roads are passable, the Manila North Road in Pancian, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, is temporarily closed due to landslide susceptibility, with clearing operations underway.