MALASIQUI: The provincial government of Pangasinan has strategically deployed teams and heavy equipment across key areas in anticipation of Tropical Storm Kristine. Officials aim to ensure rapid response and safety measures for residents as the storm approaches.
According to Philippines News Agency, Vincent Chu, the operations and training head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), stated in a phone interview that personnel have been strategically prepositioned in the towns of Tayug, Burgos, San Fabian, San Nicolas, and Bugallon. These locations were selected for their accessibility within each district, allowing for swift support if needed. Chu emphasized the readiness of these teams, noting their presence in the areas to provide immediate assistance if required.
The province has been on red alert since Tuesday evening, with engineering offices having standby dump trucks and heavy equipment for potential evacuation, rescue, or clearing operations. Chu detailed that 15 re
scue teams, comprising six members each from the PDRRMO, the Philippine Army, and the Philippine National Police (PNP), are prepared for deployment. Additional support has been requested from the Philippine Army, and PNP personnel are on standby.
Chu further highlighted the preparedness of water assets, ambulances, and other necessary equipment. Coordination with local counterparts has been established to implement forced evacuations in high-risk areas, such as coastal regions and riverbanks, should there be a threat of storm surges or flooding. Already, six individuals from Anda have been evacuated amid the weather disturbance.
The province is currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2, and classes were suspended following a Luzon-wide order.