Province ready for Typhoon Sendong

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Province is ready for any eventualities that may occur due to Typhoon Sendong spotted off of Mindanao.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration included Camotes Island in Cebu among those under Signal No. 1 yesterday and expected to be raised higher as Sendong is reportedly gaining more strength.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia said three days ago, they were already advised by PAGASA for the possible weather disturbance and the notice was already sent to all the mayors to be prepared. Garcia met some mayors of the province during the barangay captains’ general assembly at the Cebu International Convention Center yesterday. Some mayors have reported heavy rains in their towns.

Poro, Camotes, Mayor Luciano Rama said that his Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is prepared.

“Ang nakanindot gyud ‘ron kay ang atong mga mayor preparado, they are already have the systems in place for the disaster risk reduction and management,” Garcia told reporters.

The last typhoon that hit northern Cebu was “Ramon” but Garcia said mayors of slightly affected areas did not even ask for any assistance from the Capitol.

“I expect the same sa karon,” Garcia said. The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office was ordered to closely coordinate with the town mayors with whatever assistance they might need.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard Central Visayas suspended sea travel after most of the region was placed under storm signal by PAGASA. PCG-CV Station Deputy Commander Rolando Punzalan said as long as there is a storm signal raised in the region, they will not allow any form of sea vessel to travel. He said that the public should understand them because they are doing this for their own safety.

Fishermen are also advised not to brave the seas until the all-clear signal is given, he said.

As of PAGASA’s 4 p.m. forecast yesterday Sendong was estimated based to be at the vicinity or Southwest of Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur with maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness up to 80 kph. It is believed to move West Northwest at 22 kph towards Palawan.

The said storm is expected by Sunday afternoon to be at 190 kilometers West Southwest of Puerto Princesa City and on early morning of Monday, is expected to be 440 kilometers West Northwest of Puerto Princesa and expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility. — (FREEMAN)